Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State said consistency of formulation is crucial. That is the point we are all trying to make; it is not that there is a problem with generic drugs. There will be competition in respect of generic drugs because, once a patent expires, it opens up that possibility. We are all trying to achieve consistency. Since we last debated this issue, constituents have contacted me about studies that were carried out showing the same kind of pattern as the one in Canada. There have been studies in the United States, Germany and Switzerland. The pattern involves people missing work, breakthrough seizures and injuries. The studies refer to substitution and a loss of consistency.

I do not know how Canada organises itself, nor do I have the ability to research it in a thorough way, but I am sure, based on the fact that the Canadians identified the problem, that there would have been a response to it. When somebody is diagnosed in this country, he or she is automatically given a monthly prescription. We make sure this happens. The regime has resulted in some very good outcomes but we are potentially going to interrupt that. If the Minister of State does not consider making some changes in primary legislation, he might make a small change that would allow for a ministerial order or other such approach.

There will not be a problem for those who are very switched on regarding their medication and the fact that it should not be changed. The problem will arise for medics and newly diagnosed patients as the latter may not be as keenly aware of the need for consistency as others. They may not be aware of the difference that even a small change in the make-up of a medicine can have. Are there additional resources, perhaps made available through the Irish Medicines Board, to ensure the most up-to-date position will be made known to those who will be prescribing and dispensing medications? This will be critical in ensuring people are not exposed to risk unnecessarily.

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