VMD publishes EU exit advice for vets
In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the key areas in which vets will need to do things differently are operating the prescribing cascade and applying for a Special Import Certificate.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has launched an information hub to help vets prepare for Brexit, including what will change if the UK leaves the EU without a deal.
In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the key areas in which vets will need to do things differently are operating the prescribing cascade and applying for a Special Import Certificate.
From EU Exit Day (29 March 2019), the UK would have to follow World Trade Organisation rules, if a deal is not reached. As a result, we would no longer be able to show preference to EU medicines over those from other countries when prescribing under the cascade.
Whether a deal is reached or not, after Brexit the VMD will no longer issue Special Treatment Certificates. Only Special Import Certificates (SICs) will be available to vets importing medicines for veterinary use.
SICs will be issued for veterinary medicines authorised outside of the UK, human medicines authorised outside the UK, or in very exceptional cases, unauthorised medicines from outside the UK.
For further information and updates on what will and will not change after Brexit, visit the EU Exit Information Hub.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
