MP Calls for Better Pharmaceutical Labelling

Walthamstow MP Neil Gerrard is one of the sponsors of a Bill introduced in the House of Commons by Hendon MP Andrew Dismore to provide for better labelling of some drugs. The Bill would ensure that a prominent warning symbol was displayed on the packaging of drugs which act on the brain and central nervous system, and so can impair the consumer’s ability to carry out some activities.

“Many drugs are taken every day which act on the brain and the central nervous system” said Mr Gerrard. “They are used to treat panic attacks, post traumatic stress, obsessive disorders and some allergies. At the moment such drugs may have a sticker saying “Do not drive if you feel drowsy” or “May cause drowsiness” or there might be a tightly folded information leaflet in the package, often with tiny print.”

“This is not adequate. The wording is ambiguous and unhelpful. Someone taking the drugs is unlikely to appreciate the actual level of drowsiness caused in the brain. What this Bill would require is a prominent marking, such as a red triangle, on the package, which would mean quite simply that the use of the drug could impair judgement. This would clearly indicate to people what they should not do after taking the drugs, or in some cases suggest to them that they should seek alternative medication.”

“This action has already been taken in a number of other countries, such as Canada, France, the Netherlands and Denmark. In some of these countries a system of symbols is used, such as a green triangle if it safe to drive after taking the drugs, amber if caution is needed and red to suggest that you should not drive. I hope the Bill will be supported, and help to give increased protection to people taking these drugs.”

July 2005

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