Abstract

Off-Label Uses of Medications

Author(s): Mohammed M Alshehri, Mahmoud ME Mudawi

Abstract

The term Off-Label Drug Use (OLDU) is utilized broadly in the medical literature. It is a polarizing term since it may be related with incredible advantage or harm to patients. OLDU is defined as drug uses that not included in the indications or dosage regimens listed in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved labeling. There are many drugs with various off-label uses such as indomethacin that considered as effective alternative for surgery in neonates suffering from patent ductus arteriosus. Using of atorvastatin in Chronic Heart Failure (CHF) can be one of the most important off-label use due to its pleiotropic action also it can show significant reduction in the frequency of hospitalization due to CHF exacerbation. Off-label use of anti-platelet agents especially aspirin, have since quite a while ago filled in as the foundation in the management of patients with Peripheral Vascular Disease PVD and its recommended by both American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA).