Release of letter to veterinarians to discontinue use of aspirin in lactating dairy cattle
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EmailThe FDA released a letter to veterinarians to discontinue extra-label use of aspirin in lactating dairy cattle. Dairy producers and veterinarians should revisit treatment protocols for pain and fever to eliminate aspirin products from treatment regimens.
Released on October 11, 2024, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sent a letter to veterinarians notifying them that the use of aspirin products in dairy cattle is to be discontinued and to use FDA-approved products for pain and pyrexia (fever). The Veterinarian Letter regarding use of aspirin products in lactating dairy cattle explains the situation and actionable, alternative methods. Here are the main points:
- Under the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act (also known as AMDUCA), veterinarians may use an FDA-approved human or animal drug in food-producing species under specific conditions
- There are no FDA-approved aspirin products for use in cattle. There are other FDA-approved products for treatment of fever and pain in lactating dairy cattle. Please check with your veterinarian about what products are available for your needs.
- Extra-label use of unapproved drugs is prohibited and is monitored.
- If aspirin has been used in cattle, veterinarians should be consulted to determine an appropriate milk and meat withdrawal period.
Additional updates from the FDA that may impact dairy farmers
FDA reorganizes animal drug evaluation structure to better align innovative products, generic drugs
FDA approves five new dairy drugs
Michigan State University Extension encourages dairy farmers to talk to their herd veterinarians about FDA-approved alternatives to aspirin products to use in lactating animals and include them in treatment protocols when a single lactating cow presents with fever or pain or in the event of a disease outbreak that causes fever.
This update has been provided to you by the Dairy Team at MSU Extension.