TITLE:
The Ethics of Therapy Selection in Dermatology
AUTHORS:
Michael M. Wolz, Mark R. Pittelkow
KEYWORDS:
Ethical Issues, Moral Policies, Situational Ethics, Conflict of Interest, Beneficence
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Clinical Medicine,
Vol.5 No.16,
August
25,
2014
ABSTRACT:
Off-label use of medication
is common in many areas of medicine and particularly in dermatology. Off-label
use of medication, whether by prescription or use of samples, creates special
ethical issues that include informed consent, patient autonomy and the
fundamental adage “first, do no harm”. The choice of medication is also
influenced by the patient and appropriate use ultimately depends on a thorough
discussion of the risks and benefits as well as a mutually agreed treatment
plan.