RCVS provides reassurance on Isoflurane
"We understand that this is a concerning situation for many in the profession," Amanda Boag, RCVS president.
The RCVS has published a statement to reassure the profession that any problems that may arise from the isoflurane shortage are unlikely to be considered as a professional conduct issue.
It writes: ‘This is provided that any clinical decisions made are justifiable, that detailed contemporaneous notes are made, that the prescribing cascade is followed where authorised veterinary medicines are not available and that, where unauthorised medicines are being used, informed consent is gained from the animal’s owner.’
The reassurance comes in response to concerns raised by some vets that they may be disciplined by the RCVS for clinical decisions and outcomes that may arise from the shortage.
RCVS president Amanda Boag said: “We understand that this is a concerning situation for many in the profession who are worried about the impact of the shortage of Isoflurane on both elective and emergency operations.
“We are keen to stress that we understand that members of the profession can only do their best under the circumstances presented to them and that, provided they can clinically justify the decisions they have made, keep detailed notes, gain informed consent and follow the prescribing rules, then there is very unlikely to be an issue of professional misconduct.”
Veterinary surgeons with questions about the shortage in relation to the Code of Professional Conduct can contact the RCVS Standards and Advice Team on 020 7202 0789 or advice@rcvs.org.uk.
More information about the shortage and alternative products can be found on the Veterinary Medicines Directorate Website.
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
