§ Mr. Patrick Jenkinasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action is being taken following the report that oxytocin drugs are being restricted in the United States of America to cases where they are necessary for proper medical reasons only.
§ Mr. Ennals:I have no evidence to suggest that induction of labour using oxytocin is carried out for other than medical reasons in NHS hospitals. There are, however, many medical indications for induction. Where continuation of pregnancy threatens the health of the mother or her baby, the benefits of oxytocin-induced labour outweigh the known possible risks. The Committee on Safety of Medicines keeps the safety of oxytocin and all other medicinal products under continuous review. I see no reason for any further action.