What is the principal purpose of drug labeling?

The principal purpose of drug labeling is to ensure that safety and efficacy information is readily available to healthcare providers and consumers. This information is critical for proper use of the medication, helping to prevent adverse effects and ensure that the medication is used in a manner that achieves its therapeutic goals.

Drug labeling includes important information such as dosing instructions, potential side effects, contraindications, and storage requirements. This comprehensive information is essential for healthcare professionals when prescribing or administering a drug, as well as for consumers who may be taking the medication without professional oversight.

While aspects like marketing information and advertising requirements may also be part of broader communication about the drug, they do not represent the primary function of labeling. The focus of labeling is on conveying essential safety, efficacy, and usage information to facilitate informed decision-making in drug therapy.