Cariban for hyperemesis
Deputy Brassil raised the lack of access to Cariban for hyperemesis in pregnancy despite its effectiveness and the Government's commitment to women's health. The Tánaiste said he would ask the Minister for Health to reply, noting the Deputy had clearly outlined the case.
In the programme for Government, a very specific commitment is given to improve women's health and well-being. Given this country's very poor record in dealing with such matters historically, I wish to bring the Tánaiste's attention to an issue in respect of the drug Cariban. It is available for hyperemesis during pregnancy. It is very effective but unfortunately it is unavailable on any scheme - general medical services, GMS, the drugs payment scheme, DPS, or the long-term illness scheme, LTI. The HSE has published clinical practice guidelines for hyperemesis which state that if there are no improvements following a selection of treatments recommended, then Cariban should be given, one in the morning, one in the afternoon and two at bed time. It is actually recommended by the HSE's own guidelines yet is unavailable to women suffering from this very serious condition. The cost, depending on the dose, is between approximately €1,500 and €3,000 during the course of a pregnancy. The matter needs to be looked at immediately. If it is recommended by the HSE, it should be covered under the payment scheme.
