FDA/CVM and the USDA/CSREES National Research Support Project Number 7 (NRSP-7) are sponsoring a workshop titled "Drug Availability for Minor Species in the 21st Century."

The Minor Use Animal Drug Program has been working since 1982 to develop the necessary data to obtain drug approvals for minor species. The changing regulatory and economic situation offers challenges and opportunities to fill the increasing need for minor use drugs. The incentives for development of these drugs are few, and the impact of the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act of 1995 (AMDUCA) is unclear.

NRSP-7 and FDA/CVM are drawing together advocates and critics of schemes for providing drugs for these minor indications in a workshop to be held September 12-13, 1996 at the Holiday Inn, Bethesda, Maryland. It will feature a series of speakers to focus attention on various species, i.e., sheep and goats, veal calves, deer, game birds, ratites, zoologic species, aquaculture, ornamental fish, rabbits, and llamas. In addition, there will be representatives from the pharmaceutical industry to address their concerns and problems. The format will include small integrated groups to formulate priorities and strategies to move into the next century. The main goal of the workshop is to allow interaction with various groups and discuss priorities and problems encountered.

For further information or an agenda, please contact Dr. Alistair Webb, P. O. Box 100144, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610-0144, 352-392-4700 x3828.