What is a formulary?

A formulary is specifically a list of medications that are prescribed and dispensed by a particular pharmacy. This list serves as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, as it outlines the medications available for patient care within that pharmacy. It typically includes information about various drugs, such as their indications, dosages, and potential side effects, ensuring that pharmacists and physicians have clear guidelines regarding the medications they can prescribe and dispense.

Formularies are often created based on factors such as effectiveness, safety, cost, and the specific health needs of the pharmacy’s patient population. This ensures that patients receive medications that have been vetted for quality and appropriateness within that particular setting, which can improve prescribing practices and patient safety.

The other options, while they refer to lists, do not accurately capture the essence of a formulary in the context of pharmacy practice. A formulary does not include over-the-counter items, vitamins, or banned substances but focuses solely on those that can be prescribed, emphasizing medication management and therapeutic choices.