Challenges with the development and approval of pharmaceuticals for fish

With an increase in consumer recognition of the health benefits associated with seafood consumption, the volume of fisheries and aquaculture products consumed by the average American is expected to rise. With a concomitant expectation for high-quality products, aquaculture is likely to become a greater source of consumed fish. As the United States aquaculture industry grows, so does the need to provide veterinary services. As with any intensive farming system, appropriate medications are needed to maintain animal health and to manage fish populations. This article introduces some of the challenges associated with drug approvals for aquatic species and describes how the process of development and regulation of drugs for use in aquatic animals differs from that associated with uses in terrestrial species.