The MS Society has criticised series producers of The Bill following an episode
that featured an entirely made-up drug, which a storyline claimed was available
for people with relapsing remitting MS.
The episode, broadcast on 5
March, featured the story of Michael Drummond and 'Plavitron' - a drug that
viewers were told was available in America.
The MS Society Helpline
received a number of calls from people with MS keen to find out more about the
ficticious drug, who were disappointed to find out it didn't exist.
MS
Society spokesman, Chris Bentley, said: "There are few effective treatments for
MS and any mention of a new drug generates a lot of hope and excitement in
people living with and affected by the condition.
"Our Helpline has taken
a number of calls from people wanting to know more about the made-up drug
Plavitron and we've had to tell them it doesn't exist.
"It was grossly
irresponsible of the Bill to make up a drug. People with MS have a tough enough
time as it is without being misled over treatments."
MS Society
