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FVE proposes Internet sales ban

Online controls for veterinary medicines wanted

The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) has recommended a ban on Internet antimicrobial sales, amongst other measures, in a new report.

Making its position clear on the ongoing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) issue, the federation has published its report, titled Internet sales: a growing threat for the safe and responsible use of veterinary medicines.

Among the recommendations, FVE proposes a ban on selling antimicrobials over the Internet, control of veterinary prescriptions and strict regulation and control of Internet pharmacies Europe-wide.

The report reads: "…when discussion comes to AMR and ways to prevent it, there is one major question to answer: while we try to diminish the use of antimicrobials in both animals and humans and strictly monitor this, how do we ensure that antimicrobials are not accessible by the end users via other channels, like Internet?"

FVE also states that it is "inconsistent" to discuss restraining veterinarians from selling antimicrobials, while leaving the window open for anyone to easily access the medication they need online – without veterinary examination, diagnosis, prescription or any other control.

Dr Buhot, president of the federation, said: "It is very worrying that no one has a good overview of what exactly goes over the internet, because a large amount of these medicines seem to go around all official procedures and controls."

In a further statement, the FVE said that it wishes to make sure that Internet sales of all veterinary medicines does not compromise, at any case, animal and/or human health.

Click here to read the full report.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New form for online veterinary medicines retailers

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has produced a new online form for retailers wishing to sell veterinary medicines on the internet.

The form replace the previous Word version and is part of the VMD's ongoing commitment to digitise its processes. Anyone retailing prescription medicines online, including POM-V, POM-VPS and NFA-VPS categories, is lawfully required to register with the VMD before trading.

The change only applies to new applicants. Retailers already listed on the VMD's Register of Online Retailers or registered under the Accredited Internet Retailer Scheme (AIRS) do not need to do anything.