§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he will take steps to ensure that each prescription for medicine is accompanied by an information pamphlet describing the relevant drug's indications, side effects and withdrawal symptoms.
§ Mr. MellorNo, but other measures to improve communication to patients about medicines are in progress.
At present there is no requirement on pharmaceutical companies to provide leaflets with medicines, but the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) encourages its members to do so. Under the Medicines (Leaflets) Regulations, such leaflets, if supplied, must specify contraindications, warnings, and precautions, and may specify indications for use.
381WThe Council of Ministers of the European Community (EC) has reached a common position on a proposal to amend pharmaceutical directives which would, amongst other things, introduce a requirement to provide leaflets with medicines. It is expected that this directive will be adopted shortly.
Further, the EC Commission is following up a resolution of the Health Council of May 1987 requiring a report and, if appropriate, proposals for further measures to improve patient information leaflets. We understand the aim is to report to the Council by the end of the year. We shall consider constructively the Commission's report, when available.