FDA Changes to Over-the-Counter Livestock Medications
Authored by Jemma Petts
If you are a livestock or equine owner, you've probably heard of the recent change in over-the-counter antibiotics. On June 11, 2023, certain antibiotics made the move from OTC to prescription.
This switch is part of a larger FDA plan to reduce development of anti-biotic resistant bacteria. You can read more about CVM GFI #263 at the FDA website. These antibiotics can now be purchased at an animal pharmacy with a prescription from a veterinarian or directly from the vet.
What steps to take
- If you don’t have an established licensed veterinarian, time to get one. Having a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is crucial to your animal’s health.
- Talk to your veterinarian and plan for your animal’s prescription needs.
- Retailers can sell over-the-counter labeled products until inventory is gone, but then you will need a prescription from your vet for purchase.
- If you are shopping at Tractor Supply, you will make the switch from in-store to our online pharmacy. You’ll make your purchase online and our pharmacy will handle the rest.
Medications effected by the new FDA regulations
Cephapirin
Cephapirin Benzathine
Chlortetracycline
Dihydrostreptomycin
Dihydrostreptomycin, Penicillin G Procaine
Erythromycin
Gentamicin
Lincomycin
Oxytetracycline
Oxytetracycline, Polymyxin B
Penicillin G Benzathine, Penicillin G Procaine
Penicillin G Procaine
Penicillin G Procaine, Novobiocin
Spectinomycin
Sulfabromomethazine
Sulfachlorpyridazine
Sulfadimethoxine
Sulfamethazine
Sulfisoxazole
Tetracycline
Tylosin
You can find a full list of affected medications at the FDA website.
Frequently asked questions about FDA CVM GFI #263
How do I get my medications after June 11, 2023?
Your veterinarian will write a prescription that you provide to your preferred pharmacy. When shopping with Tractor Supply RX, our support team will validate the prescription, prepare your order and ship straight to your door.
What if I don’t have a veterinarian?
It's the time to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR).
Can the veterinarians at Tractor Supply write prescriptions for my livestock?
No, veterinarians in a TSC will not be able to write these prescriptions.
Where do I go to get my prescriptions from TSC?
You will order online from our animal pharmacy at Tractor Supply RX. Just provide your valid prescription and our support staff will handle the rest. Easy!
