Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 215: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if in view of the fact that a product (details supplied) is available on an over the counter basis in the UK and Northern Ireland she will state her policy in regard to providing this on the same basis here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6728/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Ginko Biloba is currently licensed for use in this country for the treatment of peripheral arterial occlusive disease, a disease caused by varying degrees of obstruction to blood flow through the arteries of the legs. This product has been classified as a prescription only medicine as its use is not considered suitable for self medication but more appropriate for treatment under the supervision of a registered medical practitioner.

The Irish Medicines Board is the statutory body responsible for the licensing of medicinal products in Ireland. If a licence holder wishes to apply for a change in the prescription status of their product they can apply to the Board who will review the application and make a decision as to whether a change is justified.