Veterinary Prescribing of Unlicensed Remedies

Section 3(2) of the Animal Remedies Act 1967 refers to the fact that nothing in the Act applies to animal remedies (not being biochemical substances) supplied by a veterinarian, or by a pharmacist filling a prescription for that veterinarian, for use on specific animals under the direct care of that veterinarian. This clause allows veterinarians to treat animals under their care with remedies that might not be licensed, and therefore unavailable, to best attend to the health and welfare of animals under their care.

Complaints have been made to the ACVM Group, and to the New Zealand Veterinary Assocation, that certain veterinarians are apparently using this dispensation to supply large quantities of animal remedies similar to products that are, in fact, licensed without having to register these products.

The ACVM Group is of the opinion that the section referred to is not to be used to gain advantage or to bypass regulation, and is concerned about this practice. The compliance unit is investigating these complaints.