In a previous blog, we noted that 1 out of 7 prescriptions is written off-label. Now prescription drugs have become so popular that 1 out of every 4 prescriptions written is off-label. That's a whopping 115 million off-label prescriptions a year.

Typical off-label conditions for which doctors prescribe common anti-depressants include Wellbutrin to treat chronic lower back pain, and Prozac and Zoloft to relieve the symptoms of menopause.

Off-label prescriptions are completely legal and your doctor will tell you, accurately, that they are a vital alternative for optimal patient care. However, there are still risks of side-effects with these medications - no matter what the reason is that they might be prescribed. So consumers need to actively engage in open discussion with their physicians regarding side effects of any medication they might be given.