Animal drug

Animal Drug refers to any substance intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in animals. These include both domesticated and wild animals. Animal drugs are regulated by various agencies worldwide, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States.

History

The use of drugs in animals has a long history, dating back to ancient times when herbs and natural substances were used to treat ailments in both humans and animals. The modern field of veterinary pharmacology, which includes the study and use of animal drugs, began to develop in the 19th century.

Types of Animal Drugs

Animal drugs can be broadly categorized into several types:

• Antibiotics: These are used to treat bacterial infections in animals. Some antibiotics used in animals are the same as those used in humans, while others are specific to certain animal species.
• Vaccines: Vaccines are used to prevent diseases in animals. They work by stimulating the animal's immune system to recognize and fight off specific viruses or bacteria.
• Parasiticides: These drugs are used to treat or prevent infestations of parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and worms, in animals.
• Pain relievers: Pain relievers, or analgesics, are used to manage pain in animals. These can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and others.
• Sedatives and anesthetics: These drugs are used to sedate animals or render them unconscious for surgical procedures.

Regulation

In the United States, animal drugs are regulated by the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), a branch of the FDA. The CVM is responsible for ensuring that animal drugs are safe and effective, and that food from treated animals is safe for human consumption.

Controversies

The use of animal drugs has been the subject of several controversies. These include concerns about antibiotic resistance resulting from the overuse of antibiotics in livestock, and the potential for drug residues in food products derived from treated animals.

See also

• Veterinary medicine
• Pharmacology
• Food and Drug Administration