GFI 263 Cattle Antibiotics

Key Takeaways

• FDA Guidance for Industry (GFI) No. 263 took effect in June 2023, requiring a veterinary prescription for many antibiotics that were previously sold over the counter.
• Medically important antimicrobials impacted by the rule include common injectable, oral, intramammary, and topical products used in cattle health programs.
• The change is intended to promote responsible antibiotic use and strengthen veterinary oversight in food animal production.
• Valley Vet Supply helps producers navigate the transition with prescription fulfillment support, fast shipping, and veterinary-backed guidance to keep herd health on track.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance for Industry (GFI) No. 263 went into effect in June 2023. Several antibiotics that producers are familiar with -- previously available over the counter -- will now require a prescription from a veterinarian.

Cattlemen can learn more and prepare their operation with this veterinary FAQ about the new guidance.

From injectable and intramammary products to oral liquids, boluses and eye ointments, here is a comprehensive list -- updated and published at FDA.gov -- outlining medically important antimicrobials that will require a prescription from a veterinarian, in compliance with GFI 263.

• • Sulfisoxazole
  • Oxytetracycline, Polymyxin B
  • Oxytetracycline
  • Sulfamethazine
  • Sulfabromomethazine
  • Erythromycin
  • Tylosin
  • Sulfadimethoxine
  • Sulfomyxin
  • Sulfachlorpyridazine
  • Spectinomycin
  • Lincomycin
  • Chlortetracycline
  • Penicillin G Procaine, Novobiocin
  • Dihydrostreptomycin, Penicillin G Procaine
  • Penicillin G Procaine, Novobiocin
  • Tetracycline
  • Penicillin G Procaine
  • Dihydrostreptomycin
  • Penicillin G Benzathine, Penicillin G Procaine
  • Penicillin G Procaine
  • Gentamicin
  • Cephapirin
  • Cephapirin Benzathine

View cattle antibiotics and more to ensure your herd’s health. We’re here to help you and your veterinarian navigate swift prescription fulfillment, fast shipping and general information, with our fully staffed pharmacy and Technical Service veterinary team.

Whether for horse, livestock, or pet, Valley Vet Supply is your one-stop shop for trusted care. Explore more of our cattle category at ValleyVet.com