The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has published the Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain, providing updated guidance for wholesale dealers to ensure the safe and effective distribution of veterinary medicines.

This new guidance outlines the minimum standards that wholesale dealers must meet to comply with their legal obligations under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR). It is designed to support the integrity of the supply chain and ensure that veterinary medicinal products are consistently stored, transported, and handled under suitable conditions.

Key areas covered in the guidance include:

• Quality management systems to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Personnel responsibilities and training requirements.
• Premises and equipment standards for storage and distribution.
• Documentation and record-keeping to ensure traceability.
• Handling of complaints, returns, and recalls to protect animal and public health.

The GDP guidance is applicable to all holders of a Wholesale Dealer’s Authorisation (WDA) for veterinary medicinal products in Great Britain. It aligns with international best practices and reflects the VMD’s commitment to maintaining high standards in the veterinary medicines supply chain.

Wholesale dealers are encouraged to review the guidance in full and ensure their operations are compliant. The VMD will use this guidance as a reference during inspections and compliance assessments.

Access the Guidance

The full Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain document is available to download from Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain.

For further information or queries, please contact the VMD Inspections Team at inspections@vmd.gov.uk