Government agency The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to regulations on veterinary medicines, which could potentially bring additional burdens for retailers.
The Veterinary Medicines Regulations set out controls on the marketing, manufacture, distribution, possession, and administration of veterinary medicines and medicated feed in 2013. The new consultation seeks views on proposals to modernise the Regulations, ensure they are fit for purpose to reflect developments in the industry and reduce regulatory burden where possible, and “maintain the UK as an attractive place to develop and market veterinary medicines”.
The proposed amendments to the regulations include new provisions to tackle antimicrobial resistance, which could lead to additional paperwork requirements for retailers.
Proposals in the 68-page document include a measure to keep all records, including records of stock audits and any investigations on discrepancies, for five years and ensure they are available for inspection by inspectors. It will also be an offence to fail to store veterinary medicines in line with the storage instructions on the label.
Anyone prescribing medicines, including in-store Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs), would be required to record their rationale for doing so. However, the requirement for SQPs in retail premises to be physically present when dispensing medicines already prescribed would be relaxed, allowing them to delegate that process to a “competent person” instead.
Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, said: “This consultation sets out detailed proposals to strengthen the regulations around veterinary medicines, to support this country continuing to be a world leader in animal health and welfare.
“These proposals modernise the Veterinary Medicines Regulations and include new measures to help tackle antimicrobial resistance which will contribute to delivering UK’s 5-year national action plan.”
VMD chief executive Abi Seager added: “I am pleased to see the launch of this consultation. As a key regulatory tool, these proposals will enable the realisation of opportunities that independent regulation carries.
“We have listened to the views of our stakeholders over the last few years and the resulting proposals aim to reduce regulatory burden, bring clarity and deliver regulation which balances the international supply landscape with our own national requirements.’’
The VMD is inviting anyone with an interest to share their views on the proposals. The consultation can be accessed here.
The closing date for responses is 31 March 2023.
