Kildare patients may see a drop in prescription drug prices from this week, according to local Fine Gael councillor Tony O’Donnell.
Thanks to an initiative from the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA), many medicines will see a drop of up to 40% from 1st February 2010. A full list of the medicines concerned can be found online at www.checkthelist.ie, and it contains many common treatments including Augmentin, Difene, Losec and Prozac.
Local pharmacists are expected to introduce the reduced pricing as they replenish their stocks.
“I think this is a very welcome move from the IPHA and the pharmaceutical industry they represent.
“Irish medicine prices are very expensive by European standards, and they represent a huge burden on chronic sufferers. The drugs covered by today’s announcement include many common treatments for conditions such as high cholesterol, depression and ulcers, so the news will be welcomed by many Kildare families.
“It is especially welcome in light of the cuts in the Drug Payment Scheme introduced in the last two budgets.
“The news also means a better deal for the taxpayer as the cost of drugs provided under the medical card will also be reduced.
“I hope that the pharmaceutical companies continue to cut their prices into the future so that other chronic conditions get the same reduction in costs.
“Patients can learn more about the scheme by clicking on a special IPHA site – www.checkthelist.ie”
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