Using Medicines Wisely: The place of the formulary in medicines management

It has long been established that pharmacists have a central role in promoting rational and cost-effective prescribing. In 1986, the Nuffield Report1 highlighted the importance of pharmaceutical advice. Soon after, it was recognised that capturing this advice in the form of a formulary was probably the most effective way of improving prescribing practice.

The concept of formularies has gained ground over the years and now forms the basic foundation of modern medicines management systems. It is particularly relevant in the current climate where medicines management appears to be at the top of the agenda for nearly all NHS trusts.