There is often confusion about whether the Generics Act applies to veterinary medicine in the Philippines.
Let us clarify this properly.
What Does the Generics Act Require?
Republic Act No. 6675, known as the Generics Act of 1988, mandates that prescriptions indicate the generic name of the drug.
Generic does not mean “cheap.”
Generic means the non-proprietary name of the active ingredient.
If a veterinarian prescribes an FDA-registered pharmaceutical product, the generic name of the active ingredient must be written on the prescription.
Brand names may also be indicated.
But the generic name must appear.
What About Combination or Highly Specific Veterinary Drugs?
This is where many misunderstand.
Some veterinary products:
- Contain multiple active ingredients
- Have very specific proprietary formulations
- Are marketed under a single brand
- Have no interchangeable equivalent in the market
Even in these cases, the active ingredients still have generic names.
Examples:
- Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid
- Fluralaner chewable tablet
- Imidacloprid + Moxidectin
- Ivermectin + Pyrantel + Praziquantel
Even if there is only one available brand, the prescription should still indicate:
- Active ingredient(s)
- Strength or concentration
- Dosage instructions
The law focuses on transparency in identifying what is being prescribed, not on whether alternative brands exist.
Are There Exceptions?
Certain veterinary biologics such as vaccines function differently from standard pharmaceutical drugs. However, professional documentation standards still apply.
What Should a Proper Veterinary Prescription Contain?
A professionally compliant prescription should include:
- Veterinarian’s printed name
- PRC license number
- Clinic name and address
- Date
- Animal identification
- Generic name of drug
- Strength or concentration
- Dosage and directions
- Signature
Clear documentation protects the client, the patient, and the veterinarian.
Why This Matters
Veterinary medicine is a PRC-regulated profession. Our prescribing practices must reflect professionalism, clarity, and accountability.
Using generic names is not merely a technical requirement. It is part of responsible medical documentation.
Standards protect everyone involved.
And ultimately, standards elevate the profession.
Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
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