ATCvet codes

ATCvet codes are a system used to classify veterinary drugs. This system is part of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System (ATC), which is used for drugs intended for human use. The ATCvet system is specifically designed for medications used in veterinary medicine, covering a wide range of species beyond humans. The World Health Organization (WHO) collaborates with the International Federation for Animal Health (IFAH) to maintain and update the ATCvet system.

Overview

The ATCvet coding system categorizes veterinary drugs into different groups according to the organ or system on which they act and their therapeutic, pharmacological, and chemical properties. Each drug is assigned a unique code, consisting of letters and numbers, which helps in its identification and classification. This system facilitates the organization, comparison, and analysis of veterinary pharmacological data globally.

Structure

The ATCvet code is structured in a hierarchical manner, similar to the ATC system for human medicines. It consists of five levels:

1. First level (Anatomical main group): Represented by one letter, this level indicates the organ or system on which the drug acts.
2. Second level (Therapeutic subgroup): Two digits are used to identify the therapeutic subgroup.
3. Third level (Pharmacological subgroup): One letter is used at this level, indicating the pharmacological subgroup.
4. Fourth level (Chemical subgroup): Another letter is used here to specify the chemical subgroup.
5. Fifth level (Chemical substance): The final level uses two digits to identify the specific chemical substance.

Application and Use

ATCvet codes are utilized by veterinary professionals, researchers, and regulatory authorities for various purposes, including:

• Pharmacovigilance: Monitoring the safety of veterinary drugs after they have been released on the market.
• Epidemiological studies: Investigating the use and effects of veterinary drugs in animal populations.
• Regulatory affairs: Assisting in the regulation and approval processes for veterinary drugs.
• Pharmacy and therapeutics: Aiding in the selection and use of veterinary drugs in clinical settings.

Updating and Maintenance

The ATCvet system is regularly updated to include new drugs and modifications to existing classifications. These updates are managed by the WHO in collaboration with IFAH and national regulatory authorities. The process ensures that the ATCvet system remains a relevant and useful tool for the global veterinary community.

Challenges and Limitations

While the ATCvet system provides a standardized method for classifying veterinary drugs, it faces challenges such as:

• The diversity of animal species: Veterinary medicine covers a wide range of species, each with unique physiological characteristics that can affect drug action.
• Global variations in drug availability and use: Differences in regulatory practices and drug availability between countries can complicate the classification process.
• Emerging drugs and therapies: The rapid development of new veterinary drugs and therapies requires continuous updates to the system.

Conclusion

The ATCvet codes offer a systematic approach to the classification of veterinary drugs, facilitating global communication and research in veterinary pharmacology. Despite its challenges, the system plays a crucial role in the safe and effective use of veterinary medications.