An effort to amend the Schedule 8 cannabis and THC entries in the Poisons Standard — with the goal of expanding veterinary access to these substances — has come to an end, at least for now.
In an interim decision published in March, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) turned down the proposal following advice from its advisory committee on medicines and chemicals scheduling.
Some optimism had followed the regulator's decision to defer a final ruling to allow for additional stakeholder consultation, but the TGA Delegate has since confirmed that the current scheduling will remain in place until stronger safety evidence is available.
They said: "While I acknowledge the current evidence for the potential benefits of the veterinary use of these substances, I consider these benefits to be presently outweighed by the associated risks set out in the interim decision.
"I agree with the expressed need for alternative pain relief for animals and that the use of cannabis and THCs has the potential to provide this.
"However, given the current evidence of safety and efficacy of these substances in a veterinary setting, the current scheduling remains appropriate for cannabis and THCs.
The Delegate did leave the door open, adding: "A change to the scheduling of these substances may be appropriate should additional relevant evidence emerge."
Dr Marta Calvo Blanco, head of veterinary education at ECS Vet and a prominent advocate for greater animal access to cannabinoid medicine, said the industry must now build a stronger case to support future reform.
She said: "This is certainly a call for researchers to focus on this area since the change is ready to be enacted.
"ECS Vet will keep working for the welfare of animals while supporting the vets to always have access to the best possible treatment option, including cannabinoid-based medications."
To view the Delegate's final decision, click here.
