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VMD introduces new packaging surveillance scheme
The regulator will now monitor products which are already on the market.
New ‘streamlined’ regulation will launch on 2 February 2026.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is to introduce a new veterinary medicines packaging surveillance scheme, which is expected to streamline the regulation process.

The new scheme, which launches from 2 February 2026, will change how the VMD assesses and monitors medicine packaging. The regulator will now monitor products which are already on the market, ensuring proportionate oversight without unnecessary burden.

Every three months, a selection of products will be chosen for a packaging assessment. The products will be taken from wholesalers, and every packaging component will be reviewed.

The assessment verifies whether the packaging is compliant with approved product information text (QRD) and principles set out in the Product Literature Standards.

Findings will be shared with the Market Authorisation Holder (MAH) within the three-month assessment period. If non-compliance is identified, corrective actions will be sent – varying from updating packaging, submission of a formal variation, and tracking product defects.

The timeframe for implementing actions is dependent on the severity of identified issues.

The VMD will also no longer require mock-ups for G.I.18 Variations Requiring Assessments (VRA) and during a new Marketing Authorisation (MA) procedure. However it will continue to review mock-ups which are introduced prior to marketing, undertake joint assessment of mock-ups ahead of a new MA, and assess significant changes to design or layout which are unrelated to SPCs.

If a mock-up is required, only those which are for the smallest marketed pack size should be submitted.

The VMD says it will not routinely assess or annotate mock-ups for other variation categories. However, it may request other mock-ups on a case-by-case basis.

More details can be found on the VMD website.

Image © PeopleImages/Shutterstock.com

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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...
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Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.