The growing threat of unregulated antibiotics in animal research

3 September 2024

The growing threat of unregulated antibiotics in animal research

A new study has revealed a disturbing trend: the widespread and unregulated use of antibiotics in laboratory rodent facilities across Australia and New Zealand. This practice, far from safeguarding animal health, is actually contributing to the emergence of drug-resistant “superbugs” that pose a serious threat to human health.

The study, published in the journal Plos One, found that 71% of surveyed facilities routinely use antibiotics in their research involving rodents. This unregulated access to antibiotics, which is not subject to the same safeguards as in human and veterinary medicine, allows for the use of drugs that are considered “drugs of last resort” in other sectors.

Common practices in these facilities include administering antibiotics through drinking water, which can lead to subtherapeutic dosing and contribute to resistance development. Additionally, improper disposal of medicated water and food creates environmental contamination.

To address this issue, the study calls for stricter regulations on antibiotic use in rodent facilities, the adoption of aseptic surgical techniques, optimised antibiotic dosing regimens, and the proper disposal of medicated materials.

The study emphasises the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health. Antibiotic resistance transcends these boundaries, and practices in one sector can have consequences for another.

Such as, in human populations. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria already poses a significant public health threat.

The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis that threatens to undo decades of medical progress. Simple infections that were once easily treated could become life-threatening. Routine medical procedures, such as surgery and chemotherapy, could become riskier due to the potential for untreatable infections.

In Australia alone, over 5,200 people die each year from AMR-associated causes. Without urgent action, this number is projected to reach 10,000 by 2050.

The development of 15 new antibiotics over the next decade is crucial to combatting this threat. However, the lengthy development process and challenges in the regulatory and funding landscape hinder progress.

Evohealth partnered with the Australian Antimicrobial Resistance Network (AAMRNet) and MTPConnect to publish Fighting Superbugs: Ensuring Australia is ready to combat the rise of drug resistant infections.

The report recommends a comprehensive approach to combat antimicrobial resistance, including investing in research, reforming regulations, and promoting innovation.

The battle against antimicrobial resistance is a race against time, so the time for action is now. By implementing the report’s recommendations, Australia can play a pivotal role in shaping a future where infectious diseases remain treatable and preventable.