Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by John Leech (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Tuesday, 7 March 2006 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Colorants

Question: I thank the Minister for that answer. I became interested in this matter when a constituent told me about the difficulty of finding a medicine that did not have a particular colorant. My constituent needed the colorant-free version because of an allergy. However, I was surprised to be told by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency that one reason for the use of colorants was to improve appearance. Given the obvious danger that young children will consume medicines and pills because they think that they are sweets and drinks, and the recent tragic case— I am sorry, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Does the Minister agree that we need to rethink the use of colorants as a way to improve appearance?

Answer: I do not accept that that is necessary. The MHRA will investigate any reports of an adverse reaction to a medicine, whether that is due to the colorants or any other additive, or to the medicine's basic ingredients. It will also investigate any reports suggesting that there is a wider problem related to a particular colouring additive that may alter the benefit from the use of that medicine. Any company that wants to use an additive in a medicine has to receive approval for its use. I believe that the system is working pretty well. I shall look at the point raised by the hon. Gentleman, but I do not think that there is any need for a review at the moment.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 443 c707
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Children Additives Colourings Licensing Health hazards EU law Drugs Prescription drugs Side effects Levels Allergies
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk