Adverse drug reactions: report of the Australian Veterinary Association Adverse Drug Reaction Subcommittee, 1994.

The research is about a study conducted by the Adverse Drug Reaction Subcommittee of the Australian Veterinary Association, which reviewed 77 reports of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in animals from April 1993 to December 1994.

Introduction and Methodology

• The research is a review and analysis of 77 reported cases of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in animals. These reports were received by the Adverse Drug Reaction Subcommittee (ADRSc) of the Australian Veterinary Association between April 1993 and December 1994.
• The different species involved in the study included dogs, cats, horses, and cattle.

Findings

• Out of the 77 reports, 49 were classified as definite ADRs, 9 were seen as probable ADRs, and in 11 reports an ADR couldn’t be substantiated or there was not enough information available to make a decision.
• Eight reports were not classified due to disagreements between the manufacturer and the ADRSc over the proper classification.
• There were 16 instances of apparent hypersensitivity reactions, six of which resulted in death.
• There were also cases associated with the ‘off label’ use of drugs and use of an expired product.

Types of Drugs Involved

• The study also classified the suspected ADRs according to the types of drugs involved. The drugs most commonly linked to ADRs were antimicrobial drugs, anthelmintics, insecticides, vaccines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory preparations, chondroprotective agents, anaesthetic/sedative agents and vitamin preparations.
• ADRs linked to a vasodilator, a corticosteroid, a local anaesthetic, and a disinfectant were also observed, though there were only single reports for each.

Conclusion

• This in-depth review of reported ADRs in animals provides valuable information which can lead to better drug management and usage in the veterinary industry.