Organophosphates
Organophosphate describes a huge range ofchemicals with a very wide range spectrum of physical and chemicalproperties. The very few OPs which havebeen chosen for use in animal medicines were selected, based on a combinationof efficacy and wide safety factors, as being most appropriate to deal withspecific target pests by practical means of application.
Both pets and farm animals sufferinfestations of external parasites.These make their lives a misery and spread infections. In pet animals, fleas are the most common;in farm animals, lice, mange mites, scab mites and ticks are the principalproblems. Distressing enough on theirown, these parasites can even lead to secondary problems - for example, fleabites often cause allergic dermatitis.
Responsible owners of animals want toprotect their charges from these infestations.Indeed, it is obligatory to protect farm animals from infestations underthe Farm Animal Welfare Codes. Failureto do so can lead to prosecution for neglect.It is also in a farmers best interest financially, as healthy animalsare more productive.
Briefing documents
Organophosphates for Animal Health
Pharmacovigilance: MonitoringSuspected Adverse Reactions to Animal Medicines
Press releases
OP Sheep Dips: VPC Decision (27 September 2000)
More positive news on OP dips (25 August 2000)
OP dips should be back in late autumnsays NOAH (17 August 2000)
MAFF must learn from Committee criticisms says NOAH (23 May 2000)
NOAH requests urgent meeting with MAFFMinisters on OP dips (12 January 2000)
Further information
Veterinary medicinalproducts authorised for use in the UK as ectoparasiticides (published by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate)