EMA Issues Report on Implementing 3Rs in Drug Research

The EMA released its first biennial report summarizing actions taken to implement the so-called 3Rs — replacement, reduction and refinement — for more ethical use of animals in testing of drugs and biologics across the EU.

A joint working group of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) and the Committee for Medicinal Products for Veterinary Use (CVMP) is leading the effort and is now working on finalizing guidance documents.

The next two years will pose some challenges, because the main focus will be on core business activities and the agency’s move to Amsterdam, but 3Rs “will continue to be addressed,” EMA said.