[Veterinary drugs and good veterinary practice].

The following definition of 'Good Veterinary Practice' in relation to pharmacotherapy is presented: 'The selective use (in accordance with directions for users) of veterinary drugs registered by the authorities in those indications in which they are permitted when the diagnosis has been established and in which the problem of residues in foods of animal origin on using these agents has been taken into account'. The following recommendations are made with reference to 'Good Principles of Veterinary Practice': (1) Current training and supplementary training in the fields of pharmacy and pharmacotherapy should be adjusted in the light of recent developments in society. (2) The development of simple, rapid and reliable tests for the detection of pathogenic agents and residues of veterinary drugs should stimulated. (3) The development of conveniently arranged and standardised data sheets in generally comprehensible terms should receive sufficient attention. (4) Quality control, particularly of generic products, deserves adequate attention. (5) The institution of a Side-Effects of Veterinary Drugs Office, in which the authorities, manufacturers and other parties concerned co-operate closely, is eminently desirable. (6) The establishment of a Veterinary Drugs Committee in which all interested parties are represented, is of the utmost importance within the framework of recommendations on policy to the authorities.