The VMD has agreed to a request from the Marketing Authorisation Holder to change the legal distribution category of this anthelmintic (i.e. wormer) for sheep. 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 Pharmacists and Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) as well as vets.
Increasing the availability of this anthelmintic will help it to be incorporated into strategic worm control programmes on farms in line with best practice guidance on worm control. This could result in long term health benefits for sheep, for example by reducing the development and spread of anthelmintic resistance, thereby prolonging the effective use of anthelmintics.
Making sure anthelmintics are used properly
Making sure anthelmintics continue to be effective is essential for the long term health, welfare and productivity of animals. The volume and appropriateness of use of all anthelmintics significantly influences the rate of development of anthelmintic resistance in the target parasites. Anthelmintics must therefore be used appropriately to minimise further development of resistance.
Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) will have additional training to ensure they are sufficiently familiar with Zolvix and how to prescribe it effectively and responsibly so that it is used appropriately. A new compulsory training module will be implemented by The Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) to augment the skills of all AMTRA-registered SQPs permitted to prescribe farm animal products. New SQPs will be required to undertake a revised and extended module before gaining their farm animal registration with AMTRA.
Pharmacists and SQPs will be able to prescribe Zolvix from 1st July 2017.
Monitoring anthelmintic resistance
Farmers and prescribers should report any suspected adverse events or lack of efficacy to any anthelmintic to the VMD. This is essential in order to understand the prevalence and nature of anthelmintic resistance and to inform prescribing decisions.
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