Minister of Health Issues Decision Regulating the Trade of Prescription Veterinary Drugs - Sarmad

(KUNA) — Health Minister Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi issued a ministerial decision today, Sunday, regulating the trade of prescription veterinary medicines, thereby consolidating the responsible use of these products and strengthening oversight of their prescription, dispensing, circulation, and stockpiling in the State of Kuwait.

The Ministry of Health stated in a press release that the decision stems from the importance of tightening oversight and continuing the ministry’s efforts to develop and update the legislative and regulatory framework for drugs, enhancing health, pharmaceutical, and food security across several categories of veterinary drugs.

It noted that the use of certain drug categories requires professional supervision, including antibiotics and antimicrobials, certain narcotics and sedatives, hormones, anabolic and androgenic steroids, and some drugs affecting the central nervous system. This oversight aims to curb unregulated use and ensure that these medicines are dispensed according to professional standards and clear controls.

The ministry clarified that the decision embodies the “One Health” concept, which recognizes the interconnection between human health, animal health, food safety, and the environment. Responsible use of veterinary medicines, particularly in food-producing animals, constitutes a key component in preventing and promoting public health and ensuring the safety of animal-origin products.

It added that the decision holds particular significance in supporting national and global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance by subjecting the dispensing of veterinary antimicrobials to prescription and professional supervision, thereby promoting their rational use and limiting unnecessary or unregulated consumption.