[How, why, when and for how long time did the Danish veterinarians have the right to dispense drugs?]

Danish veterinarians are still allowed to prescribe and distribute drugs sold by Danish pharmacies to be used for treatment of animals under their care in agreement with the Danish rules and EU directives (4). Since the first student graduated from Danish Veterinary School in 1775, Danish veterinarians have also, in agreement with their education, had the right to dispense drugs produced in their own dispensary. However, due to the development of the methods for drug production, the introduction of registered products from medical companies, and the justified demands for documentation of drug efficacy and safety was abolished in 1988, and no exemptions were granted after January 1st 1990 (1). The controlled use of drugs with documented efficacy and safety has improved the clinical effect of animal treatment, minimized side effects in treated animals and unwanted effects on the environment and the consumers of animal products (22).