Off-label prescribing

Some drugs are recommended for use outside the terms of their licence (‘off-label’ use). Although their specific use in dentistry has not been licensed, their use in the management of certain dental conditions has been endorsed by the BNF.

Certain drugs which are licensed for use in adults are not licensed for use in children however it is sometimes necessary to use them in the treatment of children.

The responsibility for prescribing drugs ‘off-label’ and any other drugs lies with the practitioner who signs the prescription.

Prescribing or administering drugs that are unlicensed for a particular condition or for use in children alters (and probably increases) the practitioner’s professional responsibility and potential liability, and the practitioner should be able to justify and feel competent in using such drugs.