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NOAH responds to CMA working papers
NOAH is concerned that amending framework will undermine pharmacovigilance.
Concerns are raised about the use of human and unlicensed medicine.

The National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) has submitted its response to working papers published by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) earlier this year.

The trade association has emphasised the importance of preserving the veterinary medicines regulatory framework, particularly regarding human medicines.

Its current regulatory system requires that veterinary professionals prescribe licensed medicines to animals first. Alternative medicines, such as human medicines or unlicensed preparations, should only be used where the licensed medicine is unavailable or unsuitable.

NOAH says that this structure prioritises animal health, ensuring that medicines are developed, tested and authorised for veterinary use.

In its submission, NOAH has expressed concern that amending the framework might lead to increased use of human medicines or unlicensed medicines. This could harm animal health and welfare, compromising the safety and efficacy of animal treatments.

It suggests this would therefore undermine the role of pharmacovigilance in protecting animal health and veterinary medicine.

A diversion from regulated medicines may also reduce investment in new veterinary medicines, NOAH warns, making product development less viable for manufacturers.

The CMA has suggested the reclassification of some veterinary medicines to improve access for the public. The current classification system ensures that medication requiring professional oversight remains prescription-only (POM-V).

Although NOAH does recognise the benefits of reclassifying some veterinary medicines, it has stressed that these decisions are often led by regulatory authorities rather than manufacturers. It maintains that any changes must be made through consultation with regulators and veterinary professionals.

NOAH insists that any decision to increase access does not compromise expert guidance or patient safety.

As part of its response to the inquiry, NOAH has also clarified information about veterinary medicine pricing. It states that, in contrast to CMA’s suggestion that manufacturers dictate retail prices, pricing is in fact determined by wholesalers and veterinary clinics.

Its response closes: “NOAH remains committed to working alongside regulators, veterinary professionals, and industry partners to uphold the highest standards of animal health and welfare.

“We urge the CMA to consider the long-term implications of its recommendations to ensure the continued availability of safe, effective, and high-quality veterinary medicines in the UK which delivers high standards of animal health and welfare.”

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Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course relaunched

News Story 1
 The VMD has announced dates for its next Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course.

The event will relaunch on Thursday, 23 October 2025 from 9am to 5pm and will be delivered through an interactive online session.

It is open for anyone involved in a veterinary dispensary role, whether they are new to the topic or looking for a refresh. Attendees will receive vital insights into the safe and compliant handling of veterinary medicines.

The course can be booked online for £495. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.