Government bans Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac for animal use

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• Aug 2, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The Centre has taken action to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and distribution of ketoprofen and aceclofenac...

Digital Desk: In a significant move to protect wildlife and maintain ecological balance, the Centre has taken action to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and distribution of ketoprofen and aceclofenac, along with their respective formulations, for animal use. The decision came after extensive deliberation during the 89th meeting of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), an organization under the Central Drug Control Standard Organization (CDCSO).

According to multiple reports, the two drugs have been found to be harmful to cattle and have a devastating impact on vultures when they consume the carcasses of animals treated with these substances. This phenomenon has been causing an ecological imbalance, raising concerns about the conservation of vultures, an essential species for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

The Ministry of Health had sought inputs from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) and the Ministry of Agriculture to address the issue before the DTAB's discussion. Following comprehensive evaluations and expert consultations, the DTAB reached a consensus to impose a ban on the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of ketoprofen and aceclofenac and their formulations intended for animal use.

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Bangladesh had already taken the lead in banning ketoprofen use, recognizing its potential threat to both livestock and wildlife. Now, India's move to follow suit signifies the growing concern among nations to protect vultures and wildlife from inadvertent harm.

The minutes of the 89th DTAB meeting revealed that ketoprofen and aceclofenac were found to be equally toxic to vultures as diclofenac, which has already been identified as a major cause of the drastic decline in vulture populations. Studies also demonstrated that aceclofenac was rapidly metabolized into diclofenac, compounding the issue. Additionally, ketoprofen posed a significant threat to Gyps vultures, which are critically endangered.

Experts involved in the assessment emphasized the importance of conserving vultures for their crucial role in nature's cleanup crew. Vultures play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by efficiently disposing of animal carcasses, thus preventing the spread of diseases and supporting a sustainable environment.

The ban on ketoprofen and aceclofenac for animal use aligns with India's commitment to wildlife conservation and ecological sustainability. The decision is expected to have a positive impact on vulture populations and contribute to maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

As the implementation of the ban takes effect, the authorities will work closely with stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors to ensure compliance and explore alternative medications that do not pose harm to wildlife. By prioritizing the protection of vultures and promoting sustainable animal healthcare practices, India aims to set a precedent for responsible drug use that considers the broader implications on the environment.