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Warning to Trainers and Veterinarians - Use of tablets containing acepromazine [3/3/2021]

Racing NSW recognises the requirement of a veterinarian to carry a range of medications to service both racing and non-racing clients. The Rules of Racing, however, require that the possession and supply of such medications should conform to the requirements of relevant Commonwealth and NSW State legislation.

Racing NSW requires the proper supply of restricted (S4) therapeutics, including the proper labelling of any S4 that is dispensed to a client and that the quantity of supply and purpose of any prescription is appropriate.

A number of stable inspections have recently been conducted by Stewards, whereby acepromazine containing tablets not manufactured or registered for use in horses (such as A.C.P 10 Travel Sickness Tablets for Dogs and Cats) have been identified. The administration of these tablets has previously resulted in the finding of a prohibited substance on race day.

The use of such products, not manufactured or registered specifically for use in horses, are prohibited from being used in racing stables when there are specific products manufactured and registered for use in horses. Several registered products are available for prescription by a permitted veterinarian in both paste and injectable forms.

Veterinarians are reminded that current standards of veterinary practice require that when a suitable registered veterinary product is available, this must be prescribed rather than a compounded product, one registered for use in other species or registered with the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Should clarification be required, Racing NSW Veterinary Department can be contacted at (02) 8344 5050 or by emailing tkoenig@racingnsw.com.au