From Monday farmers will only be able to purchase anti-parasitics, such as wormers or flukicides, with a prescription.

It means that farmers will no longer be able to buy these products over-the-counter at their local co-op or merchant without first going through a vet and getting a prescription.

The new National Veterinary Prescription System (NVPS) also comes into effect on Monday.

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Pharmacists and dispensing organisations such as licenced merchants, co-ops and feed mills must be registered on the system to view prescriptions.

Farmers are advised that veterinary prescriptions for antimicrobials are valid for five days from the date of issue. Veterinary prescriptions for all other veterinary medicinal products are valid for six months from the date of issue.