Veterinary medicines are substances intended for use to prevent or cure disease in animals. They support both the health and welfare of both food-producing animals and pets. 

There are 3 main types:

• Vaccines: They are made from a killed or weakened disease organism or part of it which does not cause disease when administered to the patient, but stimulates the body to produce antibodies and protective cells that can combat the disease.

• Antimicrobials: These are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. They are also called ‘antibiotics’.

• Parasiticides: These are substances that destroy parasites, which can be either internal or external.

See further information in the EPRUMA video on the role of the animal health industry regarding the responsible use of veterinary medicines.