BCVA and Red Tractor offer guidance on LCT shortage

Submitted by bcvaadmin2 on

In light of recent reports from the VMD about the availability of lactating cow intramammary antibiotics, BCVA have joined with Red Tractor to help keep cattle vets and their clients informed.

As it currently stands, there are only three non-High Priority – Critically Important Antibiotics (HP-CIA) products available in the UK. These products are Ubrolexin, Procapen and Orbenin LA. Only one of these products, Ubrolexin, would be deemed to be ‘broad spectrum’.

There is also availability of Pathocef which is a HP-CIA, and there are a number of products which may be available for import under Special Import Certificate, should there be a further decline in availability.

Clearly, HP-CIAs are only permitted to be used only as a last resort, and where supported by diagnostic testing. With a reduction of available products, the threshold for justification for use will be lower. However, justification will still be required and vets are urged to continue take a responsible approach to the use of antimicrobials, even in these challenging circumstances.

BCVA and Red Tractor will continue to seek clarity on behalf of the veterinary profession and farming community, however vets in practice should continue to source information regarding specific product availability from the relevant marketing authorisation holders (MAHs) and wholesale companies.

 

Useful Links

Guidance on using the Cascade - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/424668/VMGNote13.PDF

The Red Tractor template for justification of HP-CIA use

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