FDA Tackles Farm Antibiotic Use

摘要

In an effort to slow the evolution in farm animals of drug resistance, which could spread to humans, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last week announced changes in the use of antibiotics for livestock and poultry. It asked companies producing antibacterial drugs that it considers medically important to humans to voluntarily change their labels, removing claims of improved growth and feed efficiency. These antibiotics would then require prescriptions from a veterinarian, who could approve use for treating sick animals or preventing disease in those considered "at risk." FDA gives drug producers 3 years to make the change, and many companies support the plan.