Which statement correctly describes the prescribing cascade?

• A. The prescribing cascade allows use of non-authorised medicines when there is no licensed alternative to prevent animal suffering.
• B. It requires all medicines to be licensed in every case.
• C. It applies only to human medicines.
• D. It eliminates the need for veterinary oversight.

Answer: (A)

The prescribing cascade is a rule that allows a veterinarian to use medicines not licensed for a specific animal species when there is no licensed alternative available to relieve suffering. This approach protects animal welfare by permitting appropriate non-licensed medicines under veterinary supervision, with proper justification, dosing, and record-keeping. It’s not about requiring every medicine to be licensed in every case, it isn’t limited to human medicines, and it doesn’t remove the need for veterinary oversight. So, the statement describing the cascade as allowing non-authorised medicines when no licensed alternative exists to prevent animal suffering is the best fit.