California Regulations

As of January 1, 2018, injectable and all other medically important antibiotics (MIADs) must be administered with a prescription that is ordered by a California licensed veterinarian within a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR).

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This means that all MIADs not mixed in feed, including those that are federally labeled for over-the-counter sale, will now require a prescription to be sold or used in California

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Many antibiotics already require a veterinarian prescription (i.e. Zactran, Nuflor). But for those that currently do not (i.e. LA200, Penicillin) now require a veterinarian prescription.

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Over the counter antibiotics will still be available at a licensed veterinary food-animal drug retailer with a prescription from a veterinarian. Prescriptions may only be dispensed by: the prescribing veterinarian, a veterinary food animal drug retailer (VFADR), or a licensed pharmacy.

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This is in addition to current Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) regulating antibiotics delivered through feed legislation on the Federal level that took effect January 1, 2017.

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Vaccines are not considered antibiotics and are still be available for purchase over-the-counter without a prescription.

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How to Access Antibiotics for Livestock

Veterinary Prescriptions

If a veterinarian decides that the appropriate use of a medically important antibiotic is necessary to treat, control, or in some cases prevent disease: before dispensing the drug, the veterinarian must offer the client a written prescription that the client may choose to have filled by any licensed facility or with their veterinarian.

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Current Options for Filling Prescriptions

• Veterinary Food Animal Drug Retailer (VFADRs): Licensed by the California Board of Pharmacy, can fill prescriptions for pick-up or delivery. Your veterinarian may be able to suggest a VFADR, or you can look up licensed VFADRs here.

• Licensed Pharmacies: Ask your local pharmacy if they will carry veterinary livestock drugs. Search for your local licensed pharmacy at here.

• Licensed Online Pharmacies: Several veterinary internet pharmacies are registered with the California Board of Pharmacy to fill prescriptions in the State.Your Veterinarian: Veterinarians may dispense medically important antibiotics to their patients within a valid VCPR.

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For questions, visit the CDFA webpage for more information and updates or email CDFA_AUS@cdfa.ca.gov.