Topic: Off Label

4 chapters across the catalog

Zeds
Episode 1796 41:56 - 46:47

1796: Zeds

Off-Label Vaccine Prescriptions, Pharmacy Access Issues

A discussion regarding "off-label" use of COVID-19 vaccines explains that clinicians can prescribe shots for groups not officially listed in FDA recommendations. However, barriers remain regarding whether pharmacists will honor these prescriptions and whether insurance companies will cover the costs. The shift toward pharmacy-based vaccination is contrasted with traditional doctor-office visits.

This Actually Happened!
Episode 1722 35:45 - 38:36

1722: This Actually Happened!

Hydroxychloroquine Prophylaxis, Trump Medical Controversy

Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized President Trump for taking hydroxychloroquine, calling it a bad idea given his age and weight. Medical professionals debated the safety of the drug, noting its 40-year history as a malaria treatment and its common off-label use by doctors. While the FDA issued warnings about heart rhythm risks in hospital settings, some physicians continued to prescribe it prophylactically.

Gain of Function
Episode 1244 41:04 - 45:38

1244: Gain of Function

Nancy Pelosi, Dr. Drew Pinsky and FDA Warnings

Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized President Trump's health choices, referring to him as "morbidly obese." In contrast, Dr. Drew Pinsky appeared on a news segment to clarify the safety of hydroxychloroquine versus chloroquine, explaining that doctors frequently prescribe medications for off-label use and that the FDA's warnings primarily concern unmonitored hospital settings.

Dead Angry Birds
Episode 266 25:54 - 33:24

266: Dead Angry Birds

Chantix Side Effects, Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD)

The smoking cessation drug Chantix is being studied for its potential to treat Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD) in women. While the drug is notorious for severe psychiatric side effects, the Journal of Sexual Medicine reports it may reduce unrelenting physical arousal symptoms. The hosts discuss the "off-label" marketing industry where pharmaceutical consultants encourage doctors to prescribe drugs for unapproved uses.