Explanatory note

This Order revokes and replaces the Medicines (Veterinary Drugs) (Prescription Only) Order 1991 and an order amending it.

It states that veterinary surgeons and veterinary practitioners are the appropriate persons to prescribe the veterinary drugs covered by the Order (article 3).

The Order also specifies description or classes of veterinary drugs for the purposes of section 58 of the Medicines Act 1968 (article 4). By virtue of section 58, as read with this Order, such products may be sold or supplied by retail only in accordance with a prescription given by a veterinary surgeon or veterinary practitioner and may be administered only by or in accordance with the directions of such a person. This differs from the previous Order which also specified certain veterinary drugs by reference to their composition.

The Order also provides for exemptions for certain persons from those restrictions (article 5 and Schedule 2), for prescription conditions (article 6) and for due diligence exemptions (article 7).