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Veterinary compounding in small animals: a clinical pharmacologist's perspective
1Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, 109 Greene Hall, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, AL 36849, USA. boothdm@auburn.edu
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|September 21, 2006
Summary
Veterinary compounding, or creating customized medications, offers benefits but carries risks. Veterinarians must ensure patient safety and informed consent when using these scientifically unproven treatments.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pharmacy
- Pharmaceutical Compounding
- Animal Drug Regulation
Background:
- The veterinary profession faces the increasing prevalence of veterinary compounding and the expanding role of pharmacists in drug dispensing.
- Extemporaneous compounding of prescriptions is recognized as a necessary and beneficial practice for specific animal patients.
- Compounding, by its nature, is individualized and presents inherent risks of treatment failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the implications of veterinary compounding for the veterinary profession.
- To highlight the importance of informed consent and risk disclosure for pet owners regarding compounded medications.
- To emphasize the veterinarian's responsibility in ensuring patient safety and therapeutic efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on veterinary compounding practices and regulations.
- Analysis of the risks and benefits associated with extemporaneous drug formulation in veterinary medicine.
- Examination of the evolving roles of pharmacists and regulatory agencies in animal drug compounding.
Main Results:
- Veterinary compounding, while beneficial for select cases, carries significant risks of failure.
- Pet owners must be fully informed about potential risks and the scientifically unproven nature of compounded products.
- Regulatory bodies are considering increased flexibility in animal drug compounding regulations.
Conclusions:
- The veterinary profession should embrace veterinary compounding while implementing robust measures to protect patients and the public.
- Veterinarians must ensure the safety and efficacy of all prescribed therapeutic interventions, including compounded drugs.
- Failure to uphold these responsibilities places patients, pet owners, and veterinarians at risk.
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