AVA Submission to the TGA Lidocaine rescheduling
11 Sep 2022The TGA has made the interim decision to not amend the existing Schedule 5 entry for lidocaine "in injectable preparations containing 2 per cent or less of lidocaine when packaged in a container with a tamper resistant cartridge which can only be dispensed through a rubber ring applicator for tail docking and castration of lambs, or castration of calves"
It is the AVA’s view that the Committee and Delegate have based their decision on a number of misconceptions:
- The conclusion that “significant animal welfare benefits” outweigh the risks.
- Risks of misuse or harm in target and non-target species
- Basis of assessment of public opinion
- Assertion that rescheduling the product will lead to improved human mental health
- Assertion that there are barriers to access
- Assertion that the potential for diversion and inappropriate use is low.
Read the full submission here.