Certain pet medicines are prescription-only in Australia because they are classified as prescription-only medicines (POMs) by the relevant health authroties. POMs are medications that require a prescription from a veterinarian before they can be dispensed by a pharmacist.
The reason for this is that POMs are considered to be potentially harmful if used incorrectly or without veterinary supervision. Some of the medications that require a prescription include Rimadyl, Apoquel and Carprofen.
Rimadyl is commonly prescribed by veterinarians to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and other causes of inflammation in dogs. Carprofen belongs to a group of drugs called NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs act to reduce inflammation with fewer negative side effects than steroids, making them more suitable than steroids for long-term use. Apoquel is used to treat allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs. It works by blocking the itch sensation caused by allergies and reducing inflammation in the skin.
All of these products are safe if used properly and that is why iIt’s important to consult a veterinarian before giving your pet any medication. A veterinarian can diagnose your pet’s condition and prescribe the appropriate medication at the correct dose. They can also advise you on how to administer the medication safely and monitor your pet for any side effects.
Complaints can also progress and drugs that are the right ones at one time, may need to have their dosages changed or even their use discontinued. These are all important matters and the best person to determine this is a suitably qualified vet. Even if you have used a medicine in the past, or you have been advised by a friend or colleague that their dog "had the same problem and treated it with X" only a qualified veterinarian can ascertain that the medicine is still appropriate.
A prescription is a written confirmation that your veterinarian has applied their professional skills and determined that the specific drug is right for your pet.
