What are the issues regarding the use of unapproved veterinary drugs?
When used according to the directions on the label, veterinary drugs approved for sale in Canada are safe and effective. When a medicinal product for human use is taken by an individual (with or without consultation with a health professional), it is based on an assessment that concludes that health benefits outweigh potential risks for that particular person – in this case, a voluntary decision. However, when food-producing animals are treated with unapproved drugs, residues may be present in food, and some level of risk may be unknowingly passed on to consumers – an involuntary choice. Any such residues may also be a violation of standards set under the Canadian Food and Drugs Act and Regulations which are enforced by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
