HC Deb 15 March 1985 vol 75 cc327-8W
Mr. Watts

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the comparative cost per dose of (a) Polycrol and (b) the branded antacids which remain available on National Health Service prescription; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

The information requested is as follows:

Basic NHS Cost per Dose
Product Pence
(a)
Polycrol Gel 3–6
Polycrol Tablets 1.7–3.4

Product Pence
Polycrol Forte Gel 3–6
Polycrol Forte Tablets 2.4–4.8
(b)
Gastrocote Tablets 4.1–12.4
Gaviscon Infant 16
Gaviscon Liquid 5.8–11.5
Gaviscon Tablets 4.8–9.5
Gelusil Suspension 2.5–10.1
Maalox Suspension 5.5–11
Mucogel Suspension 5.5–11
Mucaine 0.8–1.5

I am advised that the antacid effect varies between products and is not necessarily related to the dose on which these prices are based.

I also refer my hon. Friend to my reply to him on 14 March at columns 242–43.