Legal Implications of the Extra-Label Use of Drugs in Food Animals

Abstract

Although the Food and Drug Administration has never sanctioned the extra-label use of drugs in animals, it has not, until recently, objected when veterinarians deviated from label instructions as long as such use did not result in violative residues in food products derived from treated animals. However, because of the potential human health hazards associated with abuse of this position, the FDA has developed a less lenient policy toward the extra-label use of drugs in food animals. A brief review of the legislated responsibility and authority of the FDA with particular reference to the extra-label use of drugs in food animals is provided. Emphasis is placed on how anesthetics and anesthesia adjuncts in food animals can pose human health hazards.