HC Deb 26 November 1992 vol 214 cc812-3W
Dr. Goodson-Wickes

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what categories of drugs are currently on the limited list; and what proposals she has for adding to the list.

Dr. Mawhinney

The limited list applies to drugs which may be prescribed only in specified circumstances and currently contains five items. These are Acetylcysteine Granules, Carbocisteine, Clobazam, Cynocobalamin and Pregnavite Forte F.

The selected list scheme applies to categories of drugs from which only a selected number of products can be prescribed under the National Health Service. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced on 12 November, the scheme is to be extended from the current seven categories to include a further 10 categories.

The current categories are:

  • Analgesics for mild to moderate pain
  • Indigestion remedies
  • Laxatives
  • Cough and cold remedies
  • Vitamins
  • Tonics
  • Benzodiazepine sedatives and tranquillisers.

The new categories are:

  • Anti-diarrhoeal drugs
  • Drugs for allergic disorders
  • Hypnotics and anxiolytics
  • Appetite suppressants
  • Drugs for vaginal and vulval conditions
  • Contraceptives
  • Drugs used in anaemia
  • Topical antirheumatics
  • Drugs acting on the ear and nose
  • Drugs acting on the skin.

In making the regulations required to bring particular drugs within the scope of the limited list and selected list arrangements, my right hon. Friend will continue to act on the advice of the Advisory Committee on NHS Drugs.

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