China veterinary anesthetic drugs and psychotropic drugs regulations have been published by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) on July 11, 2024, aimed at ensuring the legal, safe, and rational use of veterinary anesthetic drugs and psychotropic drugs. This regulation came effective from July 15, 2024, aligning with the relevant provisions of the “Regulations on the Administration of Veterinary Drugs.”
The announcement highlights several key measures and guidelines that stakeholders in the veterinary and agricultural sectors must adhere to.
Key information
- Prescription-only management
One of the primary aspects of the new regulations is the classification of veterinary anesthetic and psychotropic drugs as prescription-only medications. This implies that these drugs cannot be sold online or advertised, and their usage is strictly limited to veterinary purposes. The regulation expressly prohibits the acquisition of these drugs under the guise of veterinary use for subsequent human consumption.
- Labeling and Instruction Requirements
The announcement mandates specific labeling requirements for veterinary anesthetic drugs and psychotropic drugs. These drugs must have labels and instructions with RED font in the upper right corner, clearly indicating “Veterinary Anesthetic Drug” or “Veterinary Psychotropic Drug,” along with “Veterinary Prescription Drug.” The background of this text should be WHITE, and the labeling must be prominent, clear, and at least as large as the generic name of the drug.
- Specific drug classifications
The announcement details the specific drugs classified under veterinary anesthetic and psychotropic categories.
（1） Veterinary Anesthetic Drugs: These include Veterinary Ketamine hydrochloride, Morphine Hydrochloride, Tiletamine Hydrochloride, Zolazepam Hydrochloride, and their respective formulations.
（2）Veterinary Psychotropic Drugs: These include Veterinary Caffeine Sodium Benzoate, Barbiturates, Pentobarbital Sodium, Phenobarbital Sodium, Pentobarbital Sodium, Diazepam, Caffeine, Butorphanol Tartrate, Xylazine, Xylazine Hydrochloride, and Silazepam, and their respective formulations.
Stakeholder impacts:
For veterinary professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and agricultural entities, these new regulations necessitate a thorough understanding and compliance with the updated guidelines. Veterinary professionals must ensure they are adequately trained and authorized to prescribe these drugs, while pharmaceutical companies need to adapt their labeling and instruction processes to meet the new standards. Additionally, agricultural entities must be vigilant in adhering to these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure the safe and appropriate use of these substances.
Further information
Read the original announcement on China veterinary anesthetic drugs and psychotropic drugs regulations.
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