Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 February 2026
267. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the status of the Health Products Regulatory Authority’s consideration of over-the-counter codeine sales; when this is expected to conclude; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15417/26]
View answerThe Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) is the competent authority for medicines in Ireland and is currently conducting an independent review of the method of sale and supply of codeine-containing medicinal products that are currently available without a medical prescription in Ireland. It is expected that the HPRA will finalise this review in 2026. Following the completion of this review, the Department of Health will engage with relevant stakeholders to assess the recommendations made by the HPRA, and to fully consider any policy changes that may be required regarding the regulation of codeine-containing medicinal products.
