My medicines were far cheaper in Sweden

I HAVE good reason to be interested in the proposed 50 cent prescription levy. As a regular user of prescribed blood pressure medication, let me offer a few price comparisons.

While on holiday in Sweden this past summer I had to purchase my medicines. Imagine my surprise when I worked out the cost against the price at home. Sweden was 66% cheaper.

I recently purchased my medicines in Belfast while on a shopping trip for £36.50 (€40.87) compared to €85.40 in the Republic.

It is not just generic medicines available here that are the most expensive in Europe – so are patent-protected medicines.

I suggest an investigation be carried out to compare prices throughout the pharmaceutical supply chain in OECD countries.

Joe McCabe

Woodland Drive

Collegewood

Ballyellis

Mallow

Co Cork