Animal Testing

General Information

Animal testing is the use of animals in scientific research. Such research is vital for patients with unmet medical needs.

EPF’s Position

EPF believes that properly regulated animal testing continues to be essential in many aspects of medical research, and a vital and legally required stage in the development of treatments for patients.

EPF supports animal-based research for medicinal purposes where there is no alternative, and when it is undertaken in accordance with best practice, in properly regulated research centres.

EPF also strongly supports increased investment in seeking alternatives to animal testing, in line with the “three R’s” principle:

• Reduction of the number of animals used
• Refinement of care and procedures
• Replacement of animal testing by other methods where possible.

Publications and Initiatives

In November 2015 EPF co-signed a statement launched by the European Animal Research Association in support of Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes. 

In October EPF and its members endorsed a statement on the patients’ perspective on the use of animals in biomedical research.