HC Deb 10 June 1976 vol 912 c726W
Mrs. Ann Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many prescriptions were issued by general practitioners for mental-emotional disorders in 1974 and 1975.

Dr. Owen

The latest available figures for preparations acting on the nervous system are shown below. However, these drugs are used for a variety of purposes apart from the treatment of mental and emotional disorders: a prescription does not indicate the condition in connection with which it was issued.

Preparations acting on the nervous system
Prescriptions dispensed in England during 1974*
Number of prescriptions Total net ingredient cost
73,837,000 £39,724,000
* Figures shown are obtained from a sample of approximately one in 200 prescriptions dispensed.