Important updates and changes to prescription medication
February 7, 2024
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is the governing body for vets within the UK, the RCVS provide guidelines for veterinarians and veterinary nurses.
We have to adhere to the guidelines set out by the RCVS, which is why we have outlined the recent changes to the rules.
The altered guidelines are put in place to ensure responsible antibiotic and antiparasitic use, which will in turn, help to reduce antibiotic resistance and environmental contamination.
Anti-parasitics:
The guidelines outline that the vet must write the specific product, quantity and dose of the prescribed treatment on your animal’s account at the time of physical examination.
We will usually speak to you about this at the time of your pet’s booster.
Our vets have been updating records where possible, but please be aware if there is not a note on your pet’s account then an appointment will need to be scheduled with a vet. The vet can then ensure we prescribe the correct treatment and dose for your animal at this appointment.
Please note, these appointments are not to discuss ongoing illnesses/concerns about your pet.
Antibiotics:
Our vets can only prescribe antibiotics during a face-to-face examination with your pet. This means they cannot prescribe antibiotics over the telephone, or in person without the patient present. This does include all formulations of antibiotics, which include: tablets, liquids, creams, eye ointment, ear drops etc.
Repeat Prescriptions:
The guidelines for repeat prescriptions have not altered. It remains that as a minimum a vet will need to assess you pet every 6 months to be able to continue to prescribe long-term treatment for their condition(s). This will include all POM-V medication and written prescriptions. Please note, written prescriptions are chargeable at £27.49.
Our prescription consultations are currently £49.39. This includes a physical examination of the patient and a discussion about any current medications. Older animals, or those with more complex health conditions or medications will need to be monitored and checked more frequently. It may be suggested that blood, urine or other tests are performed at this appointment, as despite patient’s being seemingly normal, further testing could highlight changes which may need to be addressed.
