FVE has updated its visual guide to the veterinary medicines cascade, designed to help veterinarians navigate the EU Veterinary Medicines Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2019/6).
What has changed?
The revised guide includes an important clarification on the interplay between strict observance of a product’s marketing authorisation specifications (article 106) and the so-called “cascade” provisions (art. 112-114). The clarification, announced following a 24 April meeting with the European Commission and Member States, allows for more flexibility when prescribing
The guide also reflects the recently updated EU list of substances that can be used in horses, following Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1810.
A practical guide for veterinarians
The cascade remains an important tool for meeting individual animal health and welfare needs, but its use should be exceptional, justified by an unmet clinical need and under the responsibility of the prescribing veterinarian, the leaflet recalls. The updated guide also stresses the importance of pharmacovigilance: suspected safety or efficacy concerns associated with the authorised use of veterinary medicines should be reported.
Available as a step-by-step visual guide, the updated resource is intended to make the cascade easier to understand and apply in everyday practice, while supporting responsible prescribing and regulatory compliance.
The cascade – an essential part of everyday practice
‘The cascade is not an abstract regulatory issue – it is an essential part of everyday veterinary practice and of our ability to provide appropriate care for our patients,’ stressed Volker Moser, UEVP President. ‘The greater flexibility and expansion of the veterinary medicines now available to us demonstrate that our continued advocacy and joint efforts truly matter.’
Download the updated FVE Cascade guide here.