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# FDA Veterinary Medicine Opioid Resources
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-veterinary-medicine-opioid-resources/
- Published: 2018-08-15T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-15T00:25:59.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: FDA Policy/General, Drugs, #legacy-id-D5142117

FDA says it is overcoming the lack of acute and chronic pain management information specifically tailored to veterinary medicine with issuance of a new [resource](https://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/ucm616944.htm?ref=fdaweb.com) with information and recommendations for veterinarians who stock and administer opioids. The intent, according to a [statement](https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm617007.htm?ref=fdaweb.com) from FDA commissioner **Scott Gottlieb**, is to ensure that veterinarians have additional context regarding the potential for people to misuse the products that they are prescribing to their animal patients.

The resource lists steps veterinarians can take if they stock and administer opioids: 

- follow all state regulations on prescribing opioids;
- follow all federal regulations on prescribing opioids;
- use alternatives to opioids;
- educate pet owners on safe storage and disposal of opioids;
- know what to do if a pet overdoses on fentanyl or other opioids; and
- have a safety plan and know the signs of opioid abuse.

The document also contains warning signs that may indicate a client or veterinary staff member may be abusing opioids.

“Working together,” Gottlieb concludes, “I believe that we can make progress in preventing new cases of addiction while ensuring appropriate and rational prescribing of opioids for human and animal patients with medical need.”