§ Sandra GidleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what the regulatory status is of an ampoule of botox; and what the restrictions are on its(a) sale and (b) prescription; [123063]
(2) what plans he has to ensure that administration of botox injections is regulated; [123064]
(3) what medical qualifications are needed in order to administer botox injections. [123065]
§ Miss Melanie Johnson[holding answer 2 July 2003]: Botox is legally classified as a prescription only medicine. As such, it may be sold or supplied by a doctor direct to his/her patient or to a person responsible for the patient's care. Otherwise, it may only be sold or supplied against a doctor's prescription by or under the supervision of a pharmacist on registered pharmacy premises.
The administration of Botox is regulated under the Medicines Act 1968. As a parenteral medicine, it may be self administered, administered by a doctor or a dentist, or administered by anyone in accordance with the directions of a doctor or a dentist. These directions must be specific to the patient.
Parenteral medicines may also be administered by specified groups of health professional, such as nurses and ambulance paramedics, under a patient group direction.