What does extra-label or off-label use refer to?

Extra-label or off-label use refers to the utilization of a drug in a manner that is not specifically outlined on its approved label. This can include changes in the species being treated, dosages, routes of administration, or conditions for which the drug is typically used. Such practices are common in veterinary medicine when a veterinarian believes that the benefits to the patient outweigh the risks, particularly when there are no approved medications available for a specific condition in the given species. This approach allows for flexibility in treatment options tailored to the specific needs of the animal, while still being grounded in the veterinarian's professional judgment.

The other options do not accurately capture the concept of off-label drug use. The mention of only using herbal remedies is too narrow and does not encompass pharmaceutical drugs. Limiting drug use to emergencies fails to recognize the broader applications of off-label use outside of urgent situations. Lastly, the idea of using untested new drugs does not reflect the established protocols and regulatory guidance that govern off-label uses of approved medications.