FDA Aims To Cut Use Of Antibiotics In Livestock

Concerns over the use of antibiotics in America's meat is causing the Food and Drug Administration to push new guidelines in the use of drugs on farm animals.  The effort is focused on stopping the use of growth enhancers in livestock, which would slow a surge in human resistance to the drugs. 

Doctors are worried over the emergence of "superbugs," or mutated bacteria strains that cannot be controlled by typical treatments.  The superbugs are suspected to be connected to the constant presence of antibiotics in the meat people are eating. 

The guidelines are voluntary, but the FDA expects drug makers will fully adhere to the program.  The agency reports two major drug makers have already agreed to curb the use of certain antibiotics.  The drugs can still be used to treat sick animals.  (Metro Networks Inc.)