§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Prime Minister (1) if he will set up a public inquiry into the use of steroids in hospitals;
(2) if he will make a statement on the use of steroids;
(3) what consideration he is giving, with the Secretary of State for Health, to measures to reassure the public regarding the use of steroids;
(4) if he will inquire into the case of Mrs. Niven of 11 Alvin close, Binley, Coventry.
§ The Prime MinisterCorticosteroids are long-established medicines which are important in the treatment of many serious illnesses, and their overall benefits to patients outweigh their side-effects. The Department of Health has fully investigated the effects of corticosteroids, given by mouth or injection, on the body's immune system. Advice about patients who are susceptible to chickenpox has been issued to all doctors.
A public inquiry is not appropriate. It is for doctors to decide the appropriate treatment for their patients with the benefit of advice from their professional bodies. The circumstances surrounding Mrs. Niven's death were fully investigated by the Coventry and Warwick hospital and the outcome discussed with her family.
The Department of Health has issued a press statement regarding the safety of corticosteroids, advising patients using these medicines who are concerned to see their doctor and not to stop their medication suddenly. As with all licensed medicines, my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Health continues to monitor their safety.