The VMD has recently reviewed the approved active substances list on the exemption for small pet animals (also known as the Small Animal Exemption Scheme) which may be marketed for use as anaesthetics in fish. The indications for products containing these actives are now restricted to state for mild sedation and euthanasia of diseased fish only.
The basis of the change is the VMD’s reviewed position regarding interpretation of the Veterinary Surgeons Act and conclusion that anaesthesia should be considered an act of veterinary surgery.
The table listing the approved actives has been amended to include the following warning:
Products containing [approved active] may be indicated for mild sedation and also for euthanasia of diseased fish. Indications for anaesthesia are not permitted in products marketed under this exemption.
The list of all active substances approved under the exemption and further guidance on the can be found on Guidance for Exemption from Authorisation for medicines for small pet animals