The National Office of Anima Health (NOAH) has published an updated document, produced in conjunction with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), which describes the milk withdrawal periods for the various dairy cattle flukicidal products on the market.

Flukicides are anthelmintic veterinary medicines that are active against parasites from the trematode class. The most common parasite in this class is the liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica).

The statement said: “Vets, SQPs and farmers are generally required to follow the instructions on the product labels; however, the prescribing decision rests with the vet, pharmacist or SQP.

“When prescribing, it is important to be aware of withdrawal period requirements specified on the labels and farmers should follow the advice given by the vet or the SQP.”

The joint statement said that vets, SQPs and farmers are encouraged to discuss any queries they have about the use of a flukicide in dairy animals with the technical department of the Marketing Authorisation Holder (the company that markets the product) or with the UK regulatory authority, the VMD.

The statement continued: “As with any product, care should be taken to accurately follow the dosing and administration instructions. It is very important that those prescribing flukicides continue to clearly advise farmers that those veterinary medicines must be used in accordance with their marketing authorisations, and that farmers administering those products should follow the prescriber’s instructions precisely.

“Any flukicide residue detected in milk sampled under the UK’s Residues Surveillance Plan, which is above its maximum residue level (i.e. a non-compliant result), will be investigated.”

For the latest information refer to the VMD’s product information database or the NOAH online compendium.