The United Arab Emirates will prohibit the use of ciprofloxacin, a widely used antibiotic in veterinary medicine, starting from November 1. The ban, announced by the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), applies to all veterinary medicinal products and raw materials containing ciprofloxacin, affecting nine products in total—eight imported and one domestically registered.
Ciprofloxacin, part of the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics, is recognized for its efficacy in treating certain bacterial infections. However, the decision to restrict its veterinary use reflects growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance, a global public health challenge that arises when bacteria evolve to withstand antibiotic treatments.
The EDE’s move is grounded in efforts to promote the prudent use of antibiotics and to safeguard their effectiveness for human medicine. Fluoroquinolones are classified as Critically Important Antimicrobials (CIAs) by health authorities due to their essential role in treating serious infections in humans. Overuse or misuse in animals can accelerate bacterial resistance, potentially undermining critical medical interventions.
The ban follows a scientific evaluation of antimicrobial resistance data, including studies contributed by UAE University. This evidence informed regulatory decisions designed to mitigate risks linked to antimicrobial misuse across sectors. Dr. Ruqaya Aqeel Al Bastaki, the acting executive director of the Medical Products Regulation Sector at EDE, emphasized that such regulatory measures are based on a careful risk assessment of each substance, considering their significance in both veterinary and human health contexts.
“We base our decisions on the latest scientific findings to ensure that our interventions are proportionate to the risks identified,” Dr. Al Bastaki explained. She highlighted the importance of a proactive regulatory approach to contain antimicrobial resistance and ensure the continued effectiveness of available treatments.
The EDE also announced plans to implement a monitoring system to ensure compliance with the new regulations, requiring veterinary suppliers and related establishments to adhere to the ban within the specified timeline.
Overall, the UAE's step to restrict ciprofloxacin in animals aligns with international efforts to curb antimicrobial resistance and protect public health by preserving the efficacy of vital antibiotics used in human healthcare.