§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what research is being carried out into the effect of drugs and dosages for children; and if he is satisfied that enough work is being done into this subject;
302W(2) if he is satisfied that drug data sheets pay enough attention to the side-effects and suitability for children.
§ Dr. Vaughan[pursuant to his reply, 18 February 1982, c. 202]: When considering applications for product licences the Committee on Safety of Medicines pays particular attention to the information given in data sheets relating to their use and side-effects if they are to be prescribed for children.
I am not aware of any centrally funded research in this area but pharmaceutical companies are required to provide satisfactory evidence from carefully monitored clinical trials that a recommended dosage is safe and effective in children before a drug may be promoted for such use.
I am satisfied that these arrangements ensure that the side effects of new drugs on children are carefully studied and that relevant information arising from these studies is made available to the medical profession.