A survey of the use of off-label and unlicensed drugs in a Dutch children's hospital

BACKGROUND: The treatment of pediatric patients with drugs in hospitals is being impeded by a shortage in the availability of licensed drugs in an appropriate formulation. We have studied the extent of use of drugs that are not licensed for use in children (unlicensed) and drugs that are used outside the terms of the product license (off-label). We conducted this study in a Dutch academic children's hospital. METHODS: In a prospective study of 5 weeks' duration, we reviewed drug prescriptions in a pediatric ward and 3 intensive care units. We classified the prescribed drugs in 3 main categorie... Mehr ...