Currently, etorphine is included in the list of drugs whose circulation is restricted and controlled by the government.
“Etorphine is an opioid analgesic which has been widely used in the world for treatment of animals,” Sergei Sereda, the President of the Association of Veterinary Practitioners, told the Veterinary Medicine and Life. Etorphine was banned in Russia. However, since the ban on etorphine has recently been lifted we can use it for humane treatment of animals, because animals should not feel the pain.”
Sergei Sereda noted that earlier this drug was used by veterinarians illegally to alleviate pain and suffering in animals. The criminal investigations were launched for an unauthorized use of the drug.
According to the President of the Association, permission to use the drug is a welcome step in the right direction. “However, there should be other medicines available for veterinarians, perhaps, tens or hundreds of brand names, so that the veterinarians will have a product choice depending on the situation. But the fact that at least the use of etorphine has been permitted, as a veterinarian, makes me feel happy,” the President concluded.
