Guide to using these tables
In the withdrawal period tables, where a product is indicated for use in a species, then the withdrawal period is given. Where a dash (-) is used it means that there is no withdrawal period for use in this species. It may still be possible to use this product (in the species against which the dash is placed) under the 'cascade'. When using the prescribing cascade in a food producing animal, the veterinary surgeon responsible may use the cascade as long as;
1the pharmacologically active substance contained in the medicine is listed in Table 1 of European Commission Regulation 37/2010
2the vet must specify an appropriate withdrawal period.
If a veterinary surgeon prescribes use of a product in a species for which it is not indicated, then the veterinary surgeon must set an appropriate withdrawal period.
The withdrawal period set by the veterinary surgeon should not be less than:
28 days | Meat from poultry and mammals including fat and offal | |
7 days | Milk | | |
7 days | Eggs | | |
500 degree days | Meat from fish | | |
The information in these tables is the best information from the participating companies about their products.
Prescribers of medicines to food producing animals are advised to access further information on the indications and contra indications for product use under the cascade in the 'notes' column, in the product data sheet or SPC or by contacting the Marketing Authorisation Holder.
The marketing authorisation holder must always be the absolute reference point for any information on a specific product. More information on the use of the cascade in food producing animals can be accessed in the VMD's Veterinary Medicines Guidance Note 13:
www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/pdf/vmgn/VMGNote13.pdf.
Specific Considerations for Milk
Milk should be excluded from the bulk sold if a cow is in poor health, especially if suffering from udder or reproductive tract disease, is being fed or treated with any substance known to make the milk unsuitable for human consumption, or has a very low yield (less than 2 litres per day).
Where available, milk withdrawal periods for sheep and goats are stated under ‘‘Notes’’ in the right-hand column of the table.
Where intramammaries are used outside the data sheet recommendations, e.g.
•the number of tubes is increased, or
•the treatment period is increased, or
•the interdose interval is shortened, or
•the treatment is changed to another product,
•or there is simultaneous administration of other antimicrobials by this or other routes then the veterinary surgeon should set a withdrawal period not less than the standard 7 days for milk or 28 days for meat in line with the requirements of the prescribing cascade.
Enquiries re withdrawal periods and the cascade.
If prescribing veterinary surgeons have any queries regarding cascade use of a product and the calculation of withdrawal period, they are encouraged to contact the technical department of the Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH).