Parallel Importation

Parallel importation is the importation of a veterinary medicinal product which is therapeutically equivalent to a veterinary medicinal product already authorised in Ireland, from an EU Member State or a country within the European Economic Area. The parallel importer is a company other than the importer who has been appointed by the marketing authorisation holder of the medicine on the Irish market. Once authorised by the IMB, the parallel imported product may then be distributed in Ireland.

An authorisation for a parallel-imported product is identified by the letters 'PVPA' in front of the authorisation number. Further information on the licensing of parallel-imported products is available from the IMB’s Veterinary Medicines Department.

The IMB is not in a position to assess or comment on trademark or copyright issues relating to parallel importation. Further information on these issues can be found in the European Commission communication COM(2003) 839, available on the European Commission website. Please note that the parallel-import of veterinary medicinal products which have been authorised by the European Commission must be notified to the European Medicines Agency. For more information, please consult the Agency's website.

The Irish Medicines Board - www.imb.ie

Parallel Importation