§ Dr. OwenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether, in the light of large-scale addiction to benzodiazepines, he proposes to change the present system of regulating the pharmaceutical companies; and what measures have been taken to ensure that such addictive drugs cannot be introduced in future.
§ Mr. Mellor[holding answer 16 March 1989]: I have no plans to change the present regulatory system which pharmaceutical companies must follow before a medicinal product can be licensed for sale or supply in the United Kingdom. Benzodiazepines are only available on prescription, and doctors have been issued with guidance on prescribing these drugs in the light of the latest evidence 391W on addiction. When considering whether to advise that a new medicinal product should be licensed on the basis of safety, quality and efficacy, the Committee on Safety of Medicines takes account of all relevant factors including any evidence there may be that the product may be addictive. Its advice would be given only after weighing very carefully the likely benefits of the product against anticipated risks. Where appropriate, suitable advice would be issued to prescribers.
§ Dr. OwenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action has been taken or is going to be taken following the chief medical officer's meeting with the leaders of the medical profession to discuss benzodiazepine prescribing.
§ Mr. Mellor[holding answer 16 March 1989]: A number of useful suggestions were made at the meeting including the development of guidance on good practice which could be used at practice level. A research study has been funded to fill some existing gaps in our knowledge with the aim of giving doctors a practical means to improve their prescribing of benzodiazephines.