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Posted: 12th March 2025

NOAH responds to CMA working papers
NOAH is concerned that amending framework will undermine pharmacovigilance.
Concerns are raised about the use of human and unlicensed medicine.

The National Office for Animal Health (NOAH) has submitted its response to working papers published by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) earlier this year.

The trade association has emphasised the importance of preserving the veterinary medicines regulatory framework, particularly regarding human medicines.

Its current regulatory system requires that veterinary professionals prescribe licensed medicines to animals first. Alternative medicines, such as human medicines or unlicensed preparations, should only be used where the licensed medicine is unavailable or unsuitable.

NOAH says that this structure prioritises animal health, ensuring that medicines are developed, tested and authorised for veterinary use.

In its submission, NOAH has expressed concern that amending the framework might lead to increased use of human medicines or unlicensed medicines. This could harm animal health and welfare, compromising the safety and efficacy of animal treatments.

It suggests this would therefore undermine the role of pharmacovigilance in protecting animal health and veterinary medicine.

A diversion from regulated medicines may also reduce investment in new veterinary medicines, NOAH warns, making product development less viable for manufacturers.

The CMA has suggested the reclassification of some veterinary medicines to improve access for the public. The current classification system ensures that medication requiring professional oversight remains prescription-only (POM-V).

Although NOAH does recognise the benefits of reclassifying some veterinary medicines, it has stressed that these decisions are often led by regulatory authorities rather than manufacturers. It maintains that any changes must be made through consultation with regulators and veterinary professionals.

NOAH insists that any decision to increase access does not compromise expert guidance or patient safety.

As part of its response to the inquiry, NOAH has also clarified information about veterinary medicine pricing. It states that, in contrast to CMA’s suggestion that manufacturers dictate retail prices, pricing is in fact determined by wholesalers and veterinary clinics.

Its response closes: “NOAH remains committed to working alongside regulators, veterinary professionals, and industry partners to uphold the highest standards of animal health and welfare.

“We urge the CMA to consider the long-term implications of its recommendations to ensure the continued availability of safe, effective, and high-quality veterinary medicines in the UK which delivers high standards of animal health and welfare.”

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