Hobby farmers with backyard chickens, small ruminants, pet pigs, and other animals may be reaching out to veterinarians in the coming months as OTC antibiotics sold at feed stores will soon need a veterinary prescription.
As of June 11, 2023, all medically important antimicrobials will require a prescription per FDA’s guidance for industry (GFI) 263…even if the animals are not intended for food production.
What does this mean for you?
This means that both small and large animal veterinarians should be prepared for an increase in calls and visits from owners of small ruminants, pet pigs, backyard chickens, and other animals, who previously may have purchased these drugs over the counter at their local farm store.
Many feed stores have already stopped selling these products, even though the change does not take effect until June 11. Click here to see FDA’s full list of antibiotics that are included in this change.
Why is the FDA making these changes?
The change is part of the FDA’s effort to combat antimicrobial resistance. Because any antibiotic use can contribute to antibiotic resistance, FDA is working to avoid unnecessary or inappropriate use of these drugs by putting their use in the hands of veterinarians. GFI 263 helps protect the effectiveness of antimicrobials in both people and animals.
Find more information about this change on the AVMA website.
