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Unlabeled use

An unlabeled use of a drug is when a doctor prescribes a medicine for a purpose other than that for which it has been specifically designed and approved. Sometimes a drug is prescribed for a specific unlabeled use so often that doctors consider it a common practice.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves drugs for specific uses.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

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