FDA Accuses Chewy and Other Companies of Selling Unapproved Animal Antibiotics

The unapproved drugs, containing antibiotics such as penicillin and amoxicillin, could contribute to the development of drug-resistant superbugs.

Chewy and eight other companies have been accused by the FDA of violating federal law by selling unapproved animal antibiotics, potentially contributing to the development of drug-resistant superbugs.
The unapproved medications, targeted at birds and fish, contain antibiotics such as penicillin and amoxicillin, which are only available via prescription.
The FDA has requested the companies to outline how they plan to address these violations within 15 days, threatening further legal action.
Public health experts warn that overuse of antimicrobial drugs is leading to treatment-resistant infections as bacteria and other microorganisms become more resistant to these medicines.
The FDA also warns that humans using unapproved animal drugs could delay effective treatment and allow infections to become severe and resistant to antibiotics and anti-fungal drugs.