Ethical principles for novel therapies in veterinary practice

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Bioethics
• Regulatory Science

Background:

• Novel veterinary treatments require ethical considerations informed by existing regulatory frameworks.
• Animal experimentation and human clinical trial regulations offer valuable insights for veterinary practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate principles from EU regulations on animal experimentation and human clinical trials into actionable guidance for veterinary surgeons.
• To support ethical decision-making regarding the implementation of novel veterinary treatments.

Main Methods:

• Analysis and evaluation of EU Directive 2010/63/EU (animal experimentation).
• Analysis and evaluation of EU Regulation 536/2014 (human clinical trials).
• Translation of regulatory principles into practical guidance for veterinary decision-making.

Main Results:

• Identified key principles relevant to veterinary practice, including treatment expectations, client consent, harm minimization, personnel qualifications, and review committee oversight.
• Principles cover ethical aspects from initial assessment through to publication of results.
• Specific considerations for novel therapeutic interventions were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• The derived principles provide a framework for veterinary surgeons to navigate ethical challenges associated with novel treatments.
• Adherence to these principles promotes responsible innovation and ethical practice in veterinary medicine.
• Facilitates informed consent and risk-benefit assessment for new veterinary therapies.