§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make an examination of the procedures under which chlorhexidine gel (corsodyl) was licensed for the treatment of gingivitis; whether the procedures would enable other products which have doubtful health and safety values to receive licences; and what further action he proposes to take to safeguard dental and periodontal patients.
§ Dr. OwenAn applicant for the grant of a product licence is required to produce evidence of the safety, quality and efficacy of the product, and this is carefully scrutinised by my professional advisers. This procedure was followed before a licence was granted in respect of the marketing of chlorhexidine gel (corsodyl) as an adjunct in the treatment of gingivitis. I am satisfied that the procedures are effective and that no other action about this product is called for.