Veterinary Ciprofloxacin Ban Takes Effect November 1st

The Emirates Drug Establishment has banned the veterinary use of ciprofloxacin from November 1st, 2026, as part of efforts to reduce antimicrobial resistance.

The decision covers veterinary medicines and raw materials containing ciprofloxacin and affects nine registered products, including eight imported items and one locally registered product.

Manufacturers, importers and suppliers have been instructed to stop dealing in the affected products and withdraw existing quantities from the local market before the ban takes effect. Remaining stocks must either be re-exported or disposed of through approved procedures, with supporting documents submitted to confirm compliance.

The establishment is also preparing a monitoring plan to verify that the required measures are completed within the specified timeframe.

Ciprofloxacin belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics, which is considered critically important in human medicine. The authority said inappropriate use in animals can contribute to bacterial resistance and reduce the effectiveness of treatments used for people.

The decision follows research into antimicrobial resistance, including studies submitted by United Arab Emirates University.