What is "off-label" use?

Prescription drugs are thoroughly tested, documented and then approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  The drugs are generally tested for a specific condition, and at a dosage rate specific for the treatment of that condition.

Many times, drugs that are approved by the FDA for a particular condition can provide benefits to other related or non-related conditions.  The dosages may also be tuned and adapted in a manner not consistent with the labeling provided by the product.  Such uses are considered "off label."

Drugs and medications used in an off-label manner require the approval and prescription by a licensed veterinarian.