A Basic Formulary for General Practice

This basic general practice formulary with about 170 drugs provides adequate, appropriate and economic drug treatment for 90% of patients encountered in practice. Based on the work of 25 general practitioners who teach medical students in Newcastle upon Tyne, the first edition was tested in practice in over 7500 consultations. The amendments in this second edition were discussed by the doctors and tested in a further 5000 consultations. For each common condition there is included a list of preferred drugs and their dosages, a few hints on diagnosis and management, and the cost of the drugs. All drugs, except proprietary combination preparations, are written in their approved (generic) form. Newer drugs have been included only if they have significant advantages over older, well-tried formulations. A new section on the drugs used in the care of terminally ill patients has been added. Any general practitioner or trainee using the book will have a good chance of prescribing rationally, safely and economically. The book can be used as a model for a practice formulary.