Off-label drug use in WOC nursing: issues related to use of mafenide acetate to treat infected chronic wounds.
Author(s): Breton DW
Affiliation(s): Albany Medical Center WOCN Educational Program, Albany, New YorK, USA. dianebre@ptd.net
Publication date & source: 2001-09, J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs., 28(5):253-8.
Publication type: Historical Article
It is not unusual for practitioners to prescribe off-label drugs for their patients--that is, drugs that have not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat the patient's particular condition. The decision to use off-label drugs should be based on a clear understanding of the risks and benefits to the patient. This issue is pertinent to WOC nurses because they may work with physicians who prescribe off-label drugs for their wound care patients. In addition, WOC nurses who are also nurse practitioners and have prescribing privileges may be intimately involved in the decision to prescribe off-label drugs. A review of the literature related to off-label drug use and mafenide acetate was conducted. This article presents the issues related to off-label use of mafenide acetate (Sulfamylon) and possible implications for patients with chronic infected wounds.
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