An “indication” refers to the specific reason or purpose for which a drug, treatment, or procedure is used or developed. Example: Aspirin is indicated for the prevention of heart attacks in individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease.
A single medical condition can have several indications, meaning that different treatments may be used to address various aspects of the condition, depending on the specific symptoms, severity, or stage of the disease. Example In Chronic Obtrusive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):
- Albuterol is indicated for acute relief of bronchospasm in COPD, providing immediate symptom relief during flare-ups.
- Tiotropium is indicated for the long-term management of COPD, helping to control symptoms on a daily basis and prevent exacerbations.
