FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – The Cyprus Veterinary Association is calling on authorities to reverse a sudden ban on cancer drugs for animals, imposed by the Health Insurance Organization (OAY) over shortage concerns.
The group says pets with diagnosed cancer are already being denied treatment, describing the move as “inhumane and unjust.” It warns that some animals will die—not from a lack of treatment options, but from blocked access to life-saving drugs.
Veterinarians note they are legally allowed under EU rules to prescribe human medicines like lomustine, doxorubicin, and melphalan when no veterinary alternatives exist.
The association urged OAY and health officials to plan better and secure enough medication to meet both human and animal needs.