Luke Flanagan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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Question 46: To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider making Sativex available on prescription through chemists here [8285/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Cannabis is designated as a Schedule 1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. As the law currently stands, it is not possible for cannabis-based medicinal products such as Sativex to be prescribed by a medical practitioner in Ireland. I am aware that claims have been made in respect of the possible health benefits of cannabis-based medicinal products for patients suffering from certain conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis. I am also aware that Sativex is authorised in the UK for the relief of spasm in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Accordingly, my Department is examining the issues associated with applying controls, similar to those that apply to other controlled drugs that can be misused, such as morphine and methadone, to cannabis-based medicinal products to permit them to be prescribed and dispensed in Ireland.