Is use of these agents justified? Here are tips.

DRUGS; VASOPRESSIN; PROTON pump inhibitors; CRITICAL care medicine; MEDICINE; PHARMACY

This article explores the use of popular but off-label critical care agents such as vasopressin, Factor VIIa, intravenous proton pump inhibitors, and dexmedetomidine. The most common use for vasopressin is as a rescue for septic shock patients. Most hospitals should avoid routine use of recombinant Factor VIIa, indicated to control bleeding in hemophiliacs. Furthermore, intravenous use of proton pump inhibitors for stress ulcers and upper gastrointestinal bleeding is another sensitive area. In addition, dexmedetomidine is emerging as a useful sedative in intensive care, surgery, and other settings.