My medicines were far cheaper in Sweden

Friday, November 20, 2009

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

This story appeared in the printed version of the Irish Examiner Friday, November 20, 2009