1. DRUG FORMULARY

2. Definition
A drug formulary is a list of prescription drugs by generic name (often also mentioning brand names) used by medical practitioners to identify drugs that offer greatest value.
Formularies are developed by committees consisting of physicians, nurse practitioners, public health experts and pharmacists. They are revised regularly by the same authorities.
Drugs are chosen for the formulary depending on on their effectiveness, safety and appropriateness.

3. Drug Formulary Collection of information on different kinds of drugs
Drugs classified into broad categories according to their main action
Additional information on dosage, side effects, contra-indications, uses
WHO Model Drug Formulary published at regular intervals, based on WHO EDL
Other organisations, governments publish their own formularies

4. Important Formularies
WHO Model Formulary (2008) – available for download from WHO website.
Intended to be model for the whole world.
Should be adapted for national and local use
British National Formulary (BNF) – provided to all doctors and pharmacists in the U.K., revised every 6 months
National Formulary of India (2011) – published by MOHFW, Govt. of India.

5. Important Formularies...2
State Drug Formularies – published by some state Governments eg. Chhattisgarh, Karnataka.
Hospital Formularies – published by some large hospitals eg. CMCH, Vellore.

6. Information Provided in Formulary
Generic name of drug, common brand names
Class or category of drug
Uses (indications)
Contra-indications
Precautions
Dosage in adults and children
Adverse effects
Drug interactions
Use of drugs in pregnancy and lactation
Use of drugs in hepatic and renal impairment

7. Types of Drugs in Formulary
Drugs used at Primary Level of care
Drugs used at Secondary Level of care
Drugs used at Tertiary Level of care

8. Types of Drugs in Formulary...2
Generic medications (Tier 1)
Preferred brand name medications (Tier 2)
Other brand name medications (Tier 3)
Speciality medications (Tier 4) – these drugs require close monitoring for safety and efficacy

9. THANK YOU