Veterinary medicine in the United States is a complex field, with various organizations playing crucial roles in ensuring the health and safety of animals. One of the key players in this domain is the FDA's
Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). This article delves into the responsibilities and structure of the CVM, highlighting its impact on animal health and safety.
Responsibilities of the CVM
The Center for Veterinary Medicine is a branch of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tasked with regulating the manufacture and distribution of food, food additives, and drugs intended for animals. This includes animals from which human foods are derived, as well as pets and companion animals. The CVM oversees the regulation of drugs, devices, and food additives used on over one hundred million companion animals, along with millions of poultry, cattle, swine, and minor animal species.
A significant part of the CVM's work involves monitoring the safety of animal foods and medications. The center focuses on ensuring that drug residues are not present in the meat or other products from food animals, thereby protecting both animal and human health. However, the CVM does not regulate vaccines for animals; this responsibility falls under the United States Department of Agriculture.
Historical Development of the CVM
The CVM has undergone several transformations since its inception. In 1953, the FDA created a Veterinary Medical Branch within the Bureau of Medicine. By 1965, a separate Bureau of Veterinary Medicine was established, which included divisions focused on veterinary medical review, new drugs, and research. Over the years, additional divisions were added, such as the Division of Compliance and Division of Nutritional Sciences.
In 1984, the Bureau was reorganized and renamed the Center for Veterinary Medicine. This reorganization aimed to streamline operations and enhance the center's ability to fulfill its mission of protecting human and animal health. The CVM's current director, Dr. Steven Solomon, took over in 2017, bringing with him a wealth of experience in veterinary medicine and public health.
Structure and Offices of the CVM
The CVM is divided into six key offices, each with specific responsibilities. The Office of the Director coordinates activities and establishes policy in areas such as management, research, and compliance. It also approves New Animal Drug Applications and reviews their effects on human health.
Other offices include the Office of Management, which handles strategic planning and budget management, and the Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation, which reviews drug applications to ensure safety and effectiveness. The Office of Surveillance and Compliance oversees animal food safety programs, while the Office of Research develops new procedures for analyzing drugs and food additives. Lastly, the Office of Minor Use and Minor Species addresses issues related to less common animal species and diseases.
