Ask an Expert with Leo Schilling – Developing New Veterinary Products (PART 2)
Our Ask an Expert Series showcases Eurofins scientists from around the country and answers questions frequently asked by customers. The questions below are answered by Leo Schilling M.Sc., Senior Scientific Services Manager with Eurofins Animal Health Testing.
What are the different steps involved in developing veterinary drugs and products?
The development and distribution of veterinary drugs and products requires careful regulation, oversight, and testing. Here are the key steps involved in this process:
- Developers work together to identify animal health problems and develop new drugs to effectively address them, while considering the risk of antibiotic resistance.
- Experienced personnel are needed to assist in the research and testing of animal medicines for safety and efficacy.
- Product sponsors perform rigorous animal health testing to ensure that animal medicines meet all safety requirements before they can be used on animals.
- Contract research organizations and production facilities and veterinary clinics provide an important service by distributing veterinary drugs and products safely and effectively to animal health care providers around the world.
- Animal health providers must adhere to the directions of approved veterinary drugs and products, ensuring that animals receive their prescribed treatment safely and effectively.
What challenges can arise during the development process for veterinary products?
- The development process for veterinary products can be a challenging one, as it is subject to approval and regulations from various agencies.
- Also, the international trade of veterinary products is subject to certain restrictions and guidelines that must be taken into consideration.
- Another challenge concerns animal product manufacturing, which may be regulated by both state and federal laws with specific rules for practitioners.
- The affordability of companion animal products can be a problem for many pet owners, negatively impacting product sales.
- Lastly, there has also been increasing controversy surrounding the use of antibiotics on animals, with some advocating for limitations in their use. With all these potential challenges, it's important for those involved in veterinary product development to understand the complexity of this field.
What is the typical timeline for developing a new animal veterinary product?
The timeline for developing a new animal veterinary product can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the product and the regulatory requirements involved. In general, the process can take several years, beginning with research and development and progressing through clinical trials, testing, and approval by regulatory bodies. It is not uncommon for the process to take up to 5 to 7 years or more, though specific timelines can vary greatly.
How can the development of veterinary products be optimized for maximum efficiency?
Optimizing the development of veterinary products can be achieved in several ways. One way of doing this is by hiring experienced subcontractors, or CROs – Contract Research Organizations. These experienced professionals can provide valuable insights into animal health challenges and help develop new products that meet the rigorous regulated testing requirements.
Meet the Expert
Leo Schilling
Scientific Services Manager, Eurofins Animal Health Testing
Leo Schilling is a technical expert and innovator engaged in supporting the Animal Health commercial market. He has multidisciplinary experience in analytical chemistry, biotechnology, food and feed quality testing, research & development, and regulatory compliance.
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