Antimicrobial
resistance is a global public health challenge. Antimicrobial drugs have been
widely used in human and veterinary medicine for more than 60 years. When used
judiciously, antimicrobials can effectively fight bacterial infections.
However, we know that overuse or misuse of these drugs promotes the development
of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.
A
statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb.
For
all of these reasons, it’s critical that we implement good antimicrobial
stewardship practices in human healthcare and veterinary settings. We must
continue to take new steps to slow the development of resistance and extend the
usefulness of these lifesaving drugs.
Combating
antimicrobial resistance continues to be a top priority for the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (FDA).
To
further these efforts, the FDA will soon implement a new, five-year blueprint
for how the FDA plans to build on its current programs to advance antimicrobial
stewardship in veterinary settings. We’ll expand on the FDA’s existing actions,
and launch some new programs. Our aim is to reduce overuse of antimicrobial
drugs and combat the rising threat of resistance.
As
part of the FDA’s regulatory mission, our Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM)
is responsible for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of animal drugs,
including antimicrobials. CVM has already taken important steps to update the
approved conditions of use for medically important antimicrobials (i.e.,
antimicrobials important for treating human disease) to support judicious use
in food-producing animals. While important progress has been made, we know that
additional work is needed to address the complex challenge of antimicrobial
resistance.
Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle,
Pharmaceutical Microbiology
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Pharmaceutical Microbiology