[Marginal notes on the admissibility and the application of veterinary drugs and animal feed additives]

Abstract

In principle, registration of a veterinary drug requires more detailed testing for toxicity than does a human drug; among other things, because of possible presence of drug residues in the edible tissues of animals. It is stated that this is not necessarily a requirement for all veterinary drugs. It is essential, however, when a drug is used for mass-medication. Three objectives may be differentiated in these cases, namely, a nutritional a preventive and a curative purpose. In discussing these objectives, it is pointed out that (despite the fact a Veterinary Drugs Act has not been adopted so far) the authorities have made the necessary arrangements to ensure the desired effectiveness and innocuity both in the target animal and in the consumer. When specially medicated feed as well as medicated drinking water are used, the situation becomes more difficult. When veterinary drug residues are being toxicologically evaluated, however, more attention should be paid to pathological studies in target animals. Establishing a veterinary toxicological data bank is advocated.