MADRID, 13 (EUROPA PRESS)
The director of the Drug Observatory of the Spanish Federation of Pharmaceutical Companies (FEFE), Enrique Granda, has warned that the transfer of medications by veterinarians, approved by Congress as part of the Law creating the State Public Health Agency, could compromise the safety of the system.
This was stated in the latest editorial of the Observatorio del Medicamento (Medication Observatory), arguing that dispensing is not just about handing out a box of pills, but also involves traceability, drug control, pharmacovigilance, and professional advice, elements that are an "inseparable" part of the pharmaceutical professional's work.
"The approval of the amendment to the Law establishing the Public Health Agency, which introduces the concept of 'assignment' of veterinary medicines, has been enthusiastically received by the veterinary community. However, it should be clarified that this amendment does not grant them carte blanche nor does it alter the essential principles governing the dispensing of medicines in our country," he stated.
Along these lines, he reiterated that the pharmacy has been and continues to be a "guarantor" of quality, safety, and legality in the supply of pharmaceuticals, including those intended for animals. In this way, it acts as a "protective barrier" against practices that "could put public health at risk."
"Attempting to replace this model with a 'hidden dispensing' system in veterinary practices disregards both current legislation and the professional role of pharmacists," he asserted.
Granda noted that the introduction of veterinary concession does not repeal either the Law on Guarantees and Rational Use of Medicines and Medical Devices or Royal Decree 1157/2021, which regulate the legal framework for veterinary medicines. As he explained, Spain defines veterinary clinics as healthcare centers subject to registration, inspection, and health control, not as retail establishments for the sale of medicines.
Therefore, he emphasized that attempting to make a practice that until now was only tolerated outside of legal channels a standard is an "abusive interpretation." He also warned that the argument that split-level transfers will prevent drug waste does not justify this model, "which blurs responsibilities."
Although he defended collaboration between doctors, pharmacists, and veterinarians under the "One Health" approach, Granda asserted that this amendment does not close the debate, but rather opens a "stage of monitoring" and, if necessary, "challenge before the competent administrative and judicial bodies." "Veterinary concession cannot become synonymous with free sale or an alibi to consolidate irregular practices," he emphasized.
"The pharmaceutical profession will continue to defend its role, not out of corporate interest, but because the safety of treatments, the control of antimicrobial resistance, and compliance with regulations that protect public health depend on it. Tradition, the law, and experience support us," he emphasized.
