Review on Rational Use of Antmicrobials in Veterinary Practice

Abstract

Veterinary drugs are used as therapeutic, prophylactic and growth promotion. The review was conducted with the aim of assessing the rational use of veterinary antimicrobials. Veterinary drugs are used in livestock sector either rationally or irrationally. Rational use of veterinary drugs means sick animals receive medications appropriate to their clinical needs, in doses that meet their own individual requirements, for an adequate period, and at the lowest cost. Whereas irrational drug use are characterized by over prescription, omission, the use of inappropriate dosage, incorrect duration, misuse of drug, take unnecessary risk, over use /frequent use of drugs and not stick with withdrawal period of a drug. The review indicates veterinary drugs used irrationally due to lack of knowledgeable of healthcare providers, lack of treatment guidelines, essential drug lists and national formularies, lack of diagnostic support services such as laboratory services, self-medication and purchasing of antibiotics directly from pharmacies, street vendors or markets and inadequate supply of veterinary drugs. Irrational use of drugs leads to antimicrobial resistance which is the current global health threat to animals and human being. Hence, veterinary drugs, especially, antimicrobial agents should be prudently used, improve availability of key essential drugs on stock through good drug supply management to reduce misuse of drugs and therapeutic failure, keep the withdrawal period to safeguard the public as well the livestock from drug residual effects and development of antimicrobial resistance are recommended.