The findings are presented in the first annual European Sales and Use of Antimicrobials for Veterinary Medicine (ESUAvet) report, covering the year 2023. This marks the beginning of a regular reporting practice, with yearly updates to follow.
Key Findings
98% of all antibiotic sales in veterinary medicine were for food-producing animals.
The top-selling antimicrobial classes were:
- Penicillins
- Tetracyclines
- Sulfonamides
According to the AMEG (Ad hoc expert group of EMA) classification for the responsible use of antibiotics in animals:
- 65% of sales were for Category D antibiotics (first-line treatments that should be used whenever possible);
- 29% were Category C (used only when no effective alternatives from Category D are available);
- 6% were Category B (critically important for human medicine and should be restricted in veterinary use).
Improving Data Collection for Antimicrobial Use
The year 2023 was the first in which EU-wide data collection on antimicrobial use in animals took place. However, many countries are still in the process of developing and refining their reporting systems.
As a result, the current data is not yet complete or accurate enough to provide detailed quantitative analysis.
EU Member States have committed to strengthening their data collection systems to improve accuracy and coverage in future reports.
This report represents an important step in monitoring antimicrobial use in veterinary medicine, contributing to the fight against antimicrobial resistance and ensuring the safety of food production.
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