Governing off-label vaccine use: An environmental scan of the Global National Immunization Technical Advisory Group Network

Abstract Background National Regulatory Authorities approve the indications for vaccine use in the product information. Occasionally, National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) make off-label recommendations for use in different age groups, populations, and dosing schedules from the product information. We sought to determine the rationale, policies and procedures for NITAG off-label recommendations. Methods We conducted an environmental scan of Global NITAG Network members, immunization program managers and regulators in 38 high-, middle- and low-income countries. Participants completed an online survey regarding policies, procedures, and legislation governing development of off-label recommendations. A sub-sample of respondents met for a focus group and interviews which were analyzed qualitatively. Results Thirty-four people responded from 26/38 (68%) countries surveyed; 76% of respondents were NITAG members or immunization program managers. Recommendations for off-label vaccine use were made in 14/26 (54%) countries; the NITAG made those recommendations in 8/14 (57%) countries. Reasons for off-label vaccine recommendations included response to disease outbreaks or vaccine shortages. Only one country had standard operating procedures for developing off-label recommendations while 6/14 (43%) countries had policies for implementing off-label recommendations. Nine respondents from 8 countries agreed to participate in a focus group (n = 6) or individual interviews (n = 3). Barriers to off-label recommendations included legal concerns, lack of standard definition for off-label use, and manufacturer reluctance to update product information. Facilitators included confidence in the decision-making process, and transparency of open communication among stakeholders. Conclusions Best practice guidelines are needed that define off-label use and outline a transparent, evidence-based approach to develop off-label recommendations.