Animal welfare

Animal experimentation is an essential part of modern drug research and development (R&D). It is a requirement of regulatory authorities worldwide that new drugs be tested in animals before being safely and ethically tested in human beings.

At present, there is no reliable, systematic alternative to animal testing. Although much research and development can be done in vitro, complex disease mechanisms can often only be better understood through the use of animal studies.

Novartis supports the use of animal experiments in our medical and biological research only where such experiments are scientifically necessary and alternative approaches are not appropriate. We have an Animal Welfare Policy and a set of Animal Welfare Standards that define key principles, responsibilities and explicit requirements governing animal experiments.

We strictly adhere to international conventions (e.g. EC Directive 86/609, US Animal Welfare Act) and Health Authority regulations and guidelines in all of the countries where we operate. In addition, we demand at least the US animal welfare standards of all third party organizations with which we partner for research involving animal experiments.

Novartis recognizes that animal experimentation raises sensitivities amongst certain stakeholders and involves ethical issues which should be openly discussed. We are committed to dialogue with responsible groups and individuals that do not resort to violence.

Learn more about the Animal Welfare Policy

Read our position on Animal experimentation
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Related link

Visit the Animal Research for Life website