Volume 103, Issue 3, March 2015, Pages 612–625
Views and reviews
On-label and off-label drug use in the treatment of endometriosis
Endometriosis,
characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma in
extrauterine locations, is a significant cause of pelvic pain and
infertility, as well as a major health care burden. Although Food and
Drug Administration (FDA)–approved treatments are available, the use of
“off-label” medications for endometriosis is widespread. In this review,
we provide an overview of the current FDA-approved treatments, followed
by a detailed review of the major “off-label” treatments being used in
the United States and worldwide, including efficacy, side effects, drug
interactions, contraindications, and anomaly risks.
Key Words
- Endometriosis;
- off-label treatment
- A.M.Q. has nothing to disclose. E.A.W. has nothing to disclose. K.R.H. has nothing to disclose.
- Reprint requests: Alexander M. Quaas, M.D., Ph.D., PO Box 26901, WP 2540, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73126-0901.
