The subject of animal welfare is an important one and we take our responsibilities in this area extremely seriously.
All the major medical advances of the last century have resulted from research that involves the use of animals. These include vaccines, prescription medicines, modern anaesthetics, surgical procedures such as coronary bypass and organ transplant and life support machines for premature babies.
Consequently, we are working with Government and others to highlight the value of research and to help the public make an informed decision on the value of animal testing.
We all look forward to the time when it will no longer be necessary to involve animals in research. However, with present knowledge, there is no alternative if cures or improved treatments are to be found.
Our company is currently seeking cures and treatments for the following pressing medical challenges including:
- AIDS and other infectious diseases
- heart disease
- stroke
- cancer
- inflammation and nervous system disorders like Alzheimer's disease
A necessity for the time being, but we are using fewer animals
Claims that animal testing is unnecessary are, frankly, wrong. At present, animal testing is the only way to answer certain questions such as how a new medicine behaves in an entire living system rather than just in isolated cells or tissues. There is no equally effective way to measure a new medicine's safety and potential value before it is given to human volunteers.
Wherever possible, we use alternative methods that do not involve the use of live animals and our company actively supports investigation into further means of reducing the number of animals used. These alternatives include isolated proteins - enzymes, hormone receptors, neurotransmitter receptors - cell cultures, tissue studies and computer models, used primarily in early stages of research.
Using these techniques, we have seen a marked reduction in the number of animals required to determine the efficacy and safety of each medicine.
We work to minimise any stress or discomfort caused to animals. In addition, in every country where we conduct research, there are strict regulations protecting animals. Our company acts in accordance with these legal requirements, which it either meets or exceeds.