Categorisation of antibiotics for use in animals
The use of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine leads to the development and spread of AMR. To preserve the efficacy of antibiotics, improved management of the use of antibiotics in animals is required, particularly for those antibiotics also used in human medicine.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has categorised antibiotics for use in food-producing animals to support their prudent and responsible use.
Category A – Avoid
Antibiotics in this category and not authorised for veterinary use in the EU and should not be used in food producing animals.
Category B – Restrict
Antibiotics in this category are critically important in human medicine and use in animals should be restricted to reduce the risk of AMR and hence to human health. Use of these antibiotics should only be considered when no Category C or D antibiotics could be clinically effective.
Category C – Caution
Antibiotics in this category have alternatives in human medicine. They should only be used when there are no Category D alternatives that could be clinically effective.
Category D – Prudence
Antibiotics in this category should be used as first line treatments whenever possible. They should always be used prudently and only when medically needed.