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For example, pivampicillin and pivmecillinam, and any other combinations including two or
more active ingredients belonging to QJ01CA - Penicillins with extended spectrum, are
given the ATCvet code QJ01CA20.
Combinations of substances used exclusively in veterinary medicine have been given the 5th
level code 99.
Separate ATCvet 3rd or 4th level codes have been assigned to certain important combinations,
e.g. QJ51R - Combinations of antibacterials for intramammary use.
The main therapeutic use decides which ATCvet code is to be used. A product containing
vitamins and iron used primarily as an iron product should be classified in QB03 - Antianemic
preparations. Likewise, a product containing vitamins and antibiotics should be assigned to QJ -
Antiinfectives for systemic use.
The sequence of classification codes of combination products should as far as possible agree
with the order of classification of the single substances in question. In some ATCvet groups a
ranking is needed to help in the classification of combination products (e.g. in QN02B and
QJ51R). This ranking shows which substances take precedence over others when the
classification is decided.
3. Procedures and data requirements for ATCvet classifications and
alterations
3.1 Classification of new substances and data requirements
Requests for classifications of new substances should be addressed to the WHO Collaborating
Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology. It is recommended that requests be made using the
special application form obtainable from the Centre (see Annex 1) or our website at
www.whocc.no.
A new medicinal substance is normally not included in the ATC system before an application for
marketing authorisations is submitted in at least one country. In some cases, it may be necessary
to await a classification until the new substance has been approved in at least one country
(especially for substances where it is considered difficult to establish a new 5th level). These
conditions are set to avoid including in the ATC system too many substances which never
become marketed.
Data requirements:
The following data should be submitted when requesting an ATCvet code for a substance:
- Chemical structure and relationship to similar drugs.
- Pharmacology and mechanism of action, including relationship to similar drugs.
- Main indication.
- Other indications.
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