Using the Formulary

Arrangement of entries

The entries are arranged under the same chapter and section headings as in the BNF. As a result a drug may appear in more than one category.

How to find a drug

• Type the drug name into the search box above the buttons on the right hand side of the home page and press 'ENTER', or
  
  
• Click on the therapeutic sections button in the middle of the home page to reveal BNF chapter headings. Then click on the relevant chapter which will display the drug names, or
  
  
• Click on the drug index (top middle tab) where all drugs are listed in alphabetical order.

Using Icons

There are links to the BNF, BNFC and Summary of Product Characteristics which provide dosing information and NICE Technology Appraisal guidance where applicable.

 Clicking on this icon will direct you to the relevant BNFC page, where dosing information for children can be found.

 Clicking on this icon will direct you to the relevant BNF page, where dosing information can be found

 Clicking on this icon will direct you to the relevant Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC).

 Drugs with NICE Technology Appraisal guidance will have this icon. Clicking this will direct you to the relevant guideline(s).

 High Value Drugs, which are tariff excluded, will have with this icon 

 Drugs with this icon are also available for purchase from Pharmacies, over the counter, without a prescription.

 Drugs with this icon represent a warning that is linked to a restriction on supply and/or use.

 Preparations classified as 'Controlled Drugs' will have this icon. 

 Drugs requiring additional information will have this icon placed above the available preparations.

Drug status colour coding information

Guidelines

Links to local guidelines for hospital staff are available on ADAGIO (DVH intranet) and DXS (Primary Care). National guidance available via the NICE website.