The VMD has agreed to a request from Elanco to change the legal distribution categories of Zolvix anthelmintic for sheep from POM-V to POM-VPS. Zolvix 25 mg/ml oral solution is authorised for the treatment and control of gastro-intestinal nematode infections and associated diseases of sheep.
This means that this anthelmintic can now be prescribed by SQPs and pharmacists as well as vets.
“By expanding the categories of persons who can prescribe this anthelmintic, the VMD is making it more widely available,” says the VMD. “Increasing the availability of this product is intended to facilitate its incorporation into strategic worm control programmes on-farm. Such strategic use of anthelmintics is in line with current guidance on best practice for worm control from expert groups such as Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS)”
The new prescription categories will come in on 1st July to allow for additional training of new prescribers. AMTRA says it will announce additional training (CPD) for farm animal SQPs to ensure they are up to date with the latest advice from SCOPS and COWS on resistance and parasite control and will write to all relevant SQP soon.
New SQPs will be required to undertake a revised and extended module before gaining their farm animal registration.
The VMD adds that it is important that farmers and prescribers report any suspected lack of efficacy to any anthelmintic to the VMD – https://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/adversereactionreporting/
“This is essential in order to understand the prevalence and nature of anthelmintic resistance and to inform prescribing decisions,” said a spokesman.
