Veterinary Pharmacovigilance in Algeria: Situation and Prospects

An investigation was carried out to assess the real situation of veterinary pharmacovigilance, as well as the role and/or involvement of this medico-legal system in the surveillance and control of the use of veterinary medicines. A total of 150 veterinary doctors were surveyed to obtain information on the subject, our study revealed that the prescription of antibacterials with 85.5%, antiparasitic drugs with 75% and vaccination, immunological products 70.1%; Also showed an average consumption of other drug families, including drugs for the respiratory system with 66.7%, production drugs and vitamins 66.7% and digestive drugs with a prescription rate is 58.3%; Further a 62.5% of reports were made by veterinary practitioners, who are considered to be the main actors of the pharmacovigilance system in the region, with owners and farmers actively contributing to the functioning of the system with a reporting rate of 33.3. Findings show a several initiatives and actions have been taken, such as continuing training for veterinarians 41.7% through training courses and participation in seminars, initial training for veterinary students 37.5% in schools and university training institutes, the establishment and activation of committees for specific expertise in veterinary drug 37.5%, press releases 25%, through actions aimed at marketing authorization holders 20.8% and industrial subsidiaries of veterinary medicinal products, these results remain non-exhaustive but contribute strongly to determine the status of pharmacovigilance in the veterinary field and the region of study.