Unapproved prescriptions in two pediatric intensive care units in Israel.

Background: Many medications prescribed to children worldwide have not been approved for pediatric use because the necessary clinical trials have not yet been performed. Children given these drugs have been shown to be at increased risk for adverse drug reactions.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the extent of unapproved (off label and/or unlicensed) use of medications in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in Israel.