New regulations regarding the use of oxytetracycline and neomycin in calf milk replacers

* FDA has ruled the drug combination Neo-Terra in its 2:1 ratio can no longer be sold as a Type A medication in calf milk replacers.

Why did the regulations change?

The simplest answer to this question is the desire to eliminate the use of sub-therapeutic antibiotic use in livestock.  Concern with microbial resistance to antibiotics, particularly those used in human medicine is the main drive behind the desire.  Both OTC and neomycin are regularly used in human medicine for a wide variety of conditions.  The concern is that their regular use in animal production may create resistant bacteria and therefore render these (and other antibiotics) less effective.  The food and Drug Administration has therefore decided to change the rules that regulate the use of OTC and neomycin in milk replacers.



* Type A manufacturers (suppliers of the neo-terra drug) would be able to sell the current Neo-Terra 2:1drug combination until February 12th, 2010, however, their supplies are sold out.



* Type B & C milk replacer manufacturers would be able to manufacture and sell calf milk replacers using the current Neo-Terra 2:1 drug combination to the market until August 12th, 2010, however, many manufacturers including Strauss will run out of the 2:1 Neo-Terra inventory in February.



* J&R will offer the 18-21 Milk Replacer without the Neo-Terra as soon as our inventory with the drug runs out.



* An add pak may be something to consider if we need to continue to address bacteria. Please contact your J&R Salesperson for further information.