VMD upgrades Special Imports Site
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has launched an upgraded version of its Special Imports Site, making it "even easier" for vets to apply online for a Special Import Certificate (SIC) or a Special Treatment Certificate (STC).
"The VMD is constantly striving to improve the services we provide," said Jackie Atkinson, the VMD's director of authorisations. "Making it easier and cheaper to import medicines when circumstances require it will, I am sure, be welcomed by vets and animal owners.
"The Special Import Site minimises the administration required by vets to obtain an SIC or STC while continuing to ensure through the VMD's scrutiny of applications that imported products are sufficiently safe."
According to the VMD, the site allows applications for SICs and STCs to be completed free of charge online, when the VMD has previously permitted the import of the product. The site is aimed at making the process of application simpler, with drop-down menu lists, including a list of products previously permitted to be imported into the UK and a list of the importers.
SICS may also be printed immediately after completion of the online form, when applying for an EU-authorised product that has previously been imported into the UK. The VMD says that repeat certificates for STC applications will also be available instantaneously.
Applications for products not previously imported to the UK, and all new STC applications will be assessed by the VMD once the online form is completed. If approved, the STC will be emailed to the applicant. The VMD says that if a product is being imported to cover a supply problem with a UK product, the supply situation will need to be verified before the alternative is made available online. The directorate also notes that the target timetables set out in their published standards still apply, and can be found on their website.
When importing new products additional information will be required, such as a summary of the products characteristics and a copy of the product's labels, which can both be uploaded online.
The Special Imports Site can be found by clicking here. FAQs about the site can also be found on the VMD's website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
