Changes to the way certain animal medicines can be safely prescribed and supplied during the coronavirus crisis, announced this week by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate have been welcomed by regulatory body AMTRA (the Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority).
Effective immediately, the new enforcement policy addresses the challenges caused by the covid-19 pandemic. The policy allows registered animal medicines advisors (RAMAs or SQPs) to remotely prescribe and authorise the supply of animal medicines such as wormers, flukicides, flea treatments and vaccinations, provided strict procedures are observed.
The VMD has adopted the new approach, across the companion animal, equine and farm animal sectors, until April 30. Given current uncertainties, this date may be amended by further notice.
Under normal obligations, RAMAs, otherwise known as SQPs, are required to hand over or despatch the medicine product personally, or be in a position to intervene if necessary, having already established the health status of the animal requiring treatment.
