Responsible Drug Use in Food-Producing Species

Question 1

describe how to decide to use a drug

Answer 1

ask if:

1. the animal can actually be saved if use? or will it recover faster and better with drugs?
2. if the immune system just needs time to mount its response? or does it need help with drugs?
3. if you are smarter than homeostasis (fevers are homeostatic mechanisms to kill bacteria)?
4. if you are just being pressured by the owner to use antibiotics?
5. will the use of drugs prevent further health and economic consequences?

Question 2

describe the levels of regulation and oversight

Answer 2

regulators: FDA, USDA FSIS, and EPA; can pursue legal action

veterinary organizations: AVMA, AABP, AASV (no teeth)

producer groups and coops: have more pull because they can stop buying a product they don’t agree with

consumers and general public: can influence with opinion and trends

Question 3

be able to interpret a withdrawal time

Answer 3

the time required after administration of a drug to ensure that drug residues (any compound present in edible tissues after treatment with drug, includes drug, metabolites, and any substance formed in or on food) are below a determine maximum residue limit (MRL);

wait the FULL withdrawal period until the animal is sold or marketed, because could be rushed to slaughter the day of sale

(also account for time of day drug is given; if given at night, does not count as a full day for the withdrawal period)

Question 4

name sources of information on drug use (5)

Answer 4

1. code of federal regulations
2. AVMA resources
3. FDA resources
4. FARAD (food animal residue avoidance databank)
5. producer groups: NMPF dairy residue prevention manual, beef quality assurance, pork quality assurance