Sources Of Drug Information

Sources of Drug Information

Reliable drug information is essential for safe and effective pharmacotherapy. Various official and reference sources are used by healthcare professionals, pharmacists, and researchers.

1. Pharmacopoeia

• Definition:
  A pharmacopoeia is an official, legally binding compilation that provides:
  • A selected list of recognized drugs and medicinal preparations.
  • Descriptions of their physical and chemical properties.
  • Standards and tests for their identity, purity, potency, and quality.
• Purpose:
  • Standardizes the quality and safety of pharmaceutical substances.
  • Provides guidance for drug manufacturing, quality control, and regulation.
• Indian Pharmacopoeia (I.P.):
  • Published by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
  • Sets official standards for drugs manufactured and marketed in India.
  • Revised regularly (first published in 1955, with ongoing updates).

2. Drug Reference Books / Formularies

• Definition:
  Formularies are compilations of drug information, typically compiled by medical or pharmaceutical organizations.
• Features:
  • Include drug indications, dosages, side effects, contraindications, and interactions.
  • Regularly updated to reflect current therapeutic practices.
• Example:
  • British National Formulary (BNF):
    • Jointly published by the British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society.
    • Provides comprehensive, evidence-based guidance for prescribing and dispensing.

3. Extra Pharmacopoeia (Martindale)

• Also known as Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference.
• Contains information on drugs in use worldwide, including:
  • Therapeutic indications
  • Preparations and formulations
  • Regulatory status in different countries
• First edition compiled by William Martindale in 1883.
• Widely used by:
  • Pharmacists
  • Clinicians
  • Regulatory agencies

4. Merck Index

• A concise encyclopedia of chemicals, drugs, and biologicals.
• Includes:
  • Chemical structure and formula
  • Physical properties
  • Therapeutic uses
  • Toxicological data
• First published in 1889 by the Merck Company.
• Commonly used in pharmaceutical research and chemical industries.