Writing a Prescription

Hi, can anyone advise me please, can all (emphasis on the all) pharmacists write prescriptions to treat an animal, thank you

It depends for what medication. For NFA-VPS and POM-VPS medicines, any pharmacist can write a script or supply the product. For POM-V or human products, no they cannot prescribe - only a veterinary surgeon can do so. Now, strictly speaking there are no extra qualifications required of a pharmacist who is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). However, in practice, most pharmacists do take additional training to allow them to prescribe and supply appropriately and responsibly (something they are legally bound to do). In addition, the GPhC does require that they be taking additional training (Continuing Professional Development, CPD) in the areas in which they practice; so if they intend to prescribe or supply animal medications, they would need to be able to provide evidence that they had received some additional training or education in the area. Does that help?

Thanks for you reply David, so basically not all pharmacists can write  a prescription to treat a medical condition in an animal.  They would take additional training to allow them to prescribe and supply a medicine

Essentially yes, although due an indirect legal causation! More importantly though a pharmacist is not permitted to diagnose disease or prescribe treatment for an animal, under the Veterinary Surgeons Act. The medications licensed POM-VPS and NFA-VPS are generally preventative health products - worm, flea and fly treatments, plus some farm animal vaccines.

Based on the expert reply from David Harris (keymaster) on that forum thread, here is the most suitable, accurate answer to your question: Short & direct answer: No, not all pharmacists can write prescriptions for animals. Here's the breakdown: For NFA-VPS and POM-VPS medicines (e.g., flea, worm, fly treatments, some farm animal vaccines), any registered pharmacist can write a prescription or supply the product. For POM-V medicines or human products, only a veterinary surgeon can prescribe – pharmacists cannot. Additionally, while no extra legal qualification is required beyond being registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), pharmacists must have relevant Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in animal medicines to prescribe or supply them appropriately. More importantly, under the Veterinary Surgeons Act, a pharmacist is not permitted to diagnose disease or prescribe treatment for an animal – that is strictly a vet's role.