Accra:Emirates Drug Establishment The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has announced a ban on the use of ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone group, in the veterinary sector of the UAE starting November 1, 2026. This decision is part of efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance and ensure the safe use of antibiotics to preserve their effectiveness in human medicine.
According to Emirates News Agency, the classification of fluoroquinolones as Critically Important Antimicrobials (CIAs) for human medicine due to their role in treating bacterial infections prompted the ban. The inappropriate use of these antibiotics in animals could lead to bacterial resistance, reducing the effectiveness of treatments and posing a public health challenge.
The decision follows a scientific assessment of antimicrobial resistance data, including studies from United Arab Emirates University. These studies supported evidence-based regulatory decisions aimed at mitigating the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance.
Dr. Ruqaya Aqeel Al Bastaki, Acting Executive Director of the Medical Products Regulation Sector at the EDE, emphasized the importance of regulating antimicrobials based on risk assessment and the impact on treatment priorities. Scientific evidence plays a crucial role in determining regulatory interventions, allowing the establishment to take necessary measures when risks are identified.
Al Bastaki mentioned that EDE is committed to aligning its decisions with scientific developments and proactively addressing antimicrobial resistance risks. These efforts are intended to preserve treatment effectiveness, strengthen pharmaceutical security, and protect public health.
The ban includes veterinary medicinal products and raw materials containing ciprofloxacin, affecting nine products—eight imported and one locally registered. Ahead of the ban, EDE has notified relevant establishments to cease manufacturing, importing, and supplying these products, withdraw existing stock, and either re-export or dispose of remaining quantities per approved procedures. Establishments must also submit documents confirming compliance with these measures.
EDE is preparing a monitoring plan to ensure compliance and verify that establishments complete the required procedures within the specified timeframe. This decision is part of EDE's mandate to regulate the use of medical products, promote responsible antimicrobial use, and support national initiatives to combat antimicrobial resistance, thereby protecting human and animal health while enhancing the UAE's public health system.