Over 100 experts call for nation-wide ban on ‘forced swim test’ on small animals: Peta

Core Viewpoint - A nationwide ban on the "forced swim test" for small animals is being advocated by over 100 experts in various fields, as it is deemed ineffective and inhumane [1][2][3]. Group 1: Test Description and Criticism - The "forced swim test" involves placing small animals like mice and hamsters in water-filled beakers, where they must swim to avoid drowning, purportedly to study human depression [3]. - Critics argue that the test does not accurately reflect depression, as floating may indicate energy conservation rather than despair, and it is less reliable than random chance in assessing antidepressant efficacy [3]. - The test is said to cause significant psychological distress and physical suffering to the animals involved, raising ethical concerns about animal welfare and the validity of scientific outcomes [3]. Group 2: Institutional Support for Ban - A petition for an immediate ban on the test has been submitted to the Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CCSEA) by Peta India, supported by over 100 scientific experts [2][3]. - The Pharmacy Council of India has directed a review of the test's continued use, and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has also requested action from the CCSEA [3]. - International pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer, GSK, and Johnson & Johnson, along with major research universities, have committed to not conducting or funding the forced swim test [4]. Group 3: Regulatory Context - The forced swim test is fully banned in New South Wales and has restrictions in place by the UK Home Office, indicating a growing trend towards its prohibition in various jurisdictions [4]. - The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had previously reached out to drugmakers for feedback on the test, highlighting ongoing scrutiny and potential regulatory changes [3].