BVA Good Practice Guide On Veterinary Medicines Published

Main Category: Veterinary
Article Date: 26 Oct 2007 - 4:00 PDT

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The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has today announced the availability of a new members' service, the BVA Good Practice Guide on Veterinary Medicines.

According to BVA President Nick Blayney: "Having been made aware that many of our members were experiencing difficulties in understanding changes to the regulations governing veterinary medicines and how they should be implemented at practice level, the BVA Medicines Group, under the Chairmanship of John Foster, embarked on a total re-write of our old Medicines Code, last updated in 2004. They can be justifiably proud at the outcome of their efforts and I would congratulate them on the production of this excellent members' service."

The guide, written in consultation with, and endorsed by, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) contains invaluable information on the classification, administration and prescribing of veterinary medicines, as well as practical advice on the supply, disposal and record keeping requirements relating to medicines used in veterinary practice.

The BVA hopes that the Guide will provide a one-stop-shop for members where they will find accurate answers to everyday questions such as what information is required on a written prescription?; can I charge the client for a written prescription?; when can I use 'the cascade' and how should controlled drugs be disposed of?

The BVA's Good Practice Guide provides information applicable to all types of veterinary practice from companion to farm animal, mixed to equine. The Guide does not just explain how to implement the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, it also includes information on health and safety, hazardous waste regulations, and what the Suspected Adverse Reaction Surveillance Scheme (SARSS) is and when to use it.

1. In October 2005 the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) introduced the Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMRs), which implemented the EU Veterinary Medicines Directive 2007/82/EC into the UK. The Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMRs) aim to provide a single comprehensive set of controls on all aspects of veterinary medicines including the authorisation, manufacture, supply and use. The Regulations are, however, revoked and remade each year, making it challenging and time consuming for practices to keep up to date.

2. The BVA Medicines Group consists of representatives of the BVA's major species divisions and is chaired by John Foster.

3. The Good Practice Guide on Veterinary Medicines will be available to BVA members only. Each member will receive the Guide in the post with their copy of the Veterinary Record - 27th October. It will also be made available on the members only section of the BVA website at http://www.bva.co.uk

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