Key legislation approved to support animal drug development

Washington, D.C. – The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) proudly announces the recent congressional reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act (ADUFA) and the Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act (AGDUFA), essential legislation supporting the advancement of veterinary drug development. This significant legislative action ensures a continued pathway to innovation and availability of animal health treatments.

During a crucial testimony before Congress in April, Dr. Lori Teller, the then-president of the AVMA, emphasized the importance of ADUFA and AGDUFA. These acts play a pivotal role in providing a predictable and efficient review process for new, innovative animal drugs and generic animal drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine. The collected user fees are instrumental in enhancing the review and approval of essential medications for animals.

Dr. Teller highlighted the critical need for these programs, stating they fill a significant gap in the availability of safe and effective veterinary drugs. The AVMA's advocacy efforts, including both verbal and written submissions to Congress, underscored the value of ADUFA and AGDUFA in meeting the evolving needs of veterinary medicine.

The reauthorization of these acts as part of the latest government spending bill has been lauded by Dr. Teller, now the immediate past president of the AVMA. "Building a robust pipeline of innovative new animal drugs and ensuring a strong generic industry is vital to veterinary medicine," Dr. Teller remarked. "Thanks to this legislation, veterinarians will have access to an expanded range of safe and effective treatments for the animals under our care."

Dr. Teller's participation in the congressional testimony reflects the AVMA's commitment to being at the forefront of discussions impacting veterinary medicine and animal welfare. "It was an honor to testify before Congress on this critical issue," said Dr. Teller. "This achievement underscores the importance of veterinarians' involvement in the legislative process to ensure the best possible outcomes for animal health and welfare."
The AVMA celebrates this legislative milestone and looks forward to the continued development and availability of advanced animal health solutions, strengthening the practice of veterinary medicine and enhancing the well-being of animals nationwide.