CHRB Issues Advisory Regarding Compounded Medications

The California Horse Racing Board issued the following advisory Sept. 23 regarding CHRB rule 1867, issued by CHRB executive director Scott Chaney to CHRB licensed veterinarians:

The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) would like to reaffirm its interpretation of Rule 1867, subsection (b). Specifically, subsection (b) prohibits, "The possession and/or use on the premises of a facility under the jurisdiction of the Board of any drug, substance or medication that has not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States." Compounded medications are not FDA-approved.

The CHRB's longstanding interpretation of subsection (b) is that lawfully prescribed, compounded medications which are manufactured according to Federal and State guidelines do not violate this regulation. The CHRB recognizes that compounded medications are necessary for the safe and effective treatment of horses. These medications contain approved Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) substances, which have been compounded to achieve proper dosages for safe and effective equine treatment and are necessary for equine veterinarians to effectively treat various medical conditions. Use of compounded medications in the manner described is not a violation of CHRB regulations. 

Extra-label use of medication for therapeutic purposes, based on a diagnosis and VCPR, in equine patients is permitted through AMDUCA1. The CHRB regulation permits such use where no FDA-approved medications exist—a circumstance commonly present in equine practice.   

If there are specific questions pertaining to compliance with Rule 1867, veterinarians are encouraged to contact the Official Veterinarian prior to administration.