The veterinary dispensary and the legal provisions relating to the supply of drugs by the veterinary surgeon in Austria

In Austria, unlike the Federal Republic of Germany, the legal provisions re lating to acquisition, production, analysis, storage and supply of veterina ry drugs are not laid down in a distinct regulation but are scattered over a large number of different laws and regulations. In this paper, the framew ork of the legislation controlling the supply of drugs by the veterinary su rgeon for the animals under his care Is described in context in accordance with the national drug and pharmacy laws. In addition, the principles of th e national surveillance program for veterinary drug residues in animals and animal derived food, of the import of drugs not licensed for use in animal s in Austria as well as of the legitimate rules for the off-label use of dr ugs are outlined.