FAQ - What is the British National Formulary?

Answer

The British National Formulary (BNF) is a reference book for use by prescribers in the NHS, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals. Compiled with the advice of clinical experts the BNF provides up to date guidance on prescribing, dispensing and administering medicines. It covers all drugs that are prescribed in the UK and makes reference to their uses, cautions, contra-indications, side effects, dosage and relative costs. It reflects current best practice as well as legal and professional guidelines relating to the use of medicines. It is updated every 6 months and is produced jointly by the British Medical Association and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain under the authority of the Joint Formulary Committee

The BNF comes in hard copy, CD-ROM and is also accessible via the web. Work is currently underway to make data accessible via Personal Digital Assistants. A hard copy can be purchased from the BNF Customer Services Department, tel: +44 (0)1491 829 272.

Author: This FAQ was written by Susanne Young and does not reflect an official endorsement by the LTSN or any other organisation. Any questions or comments can be sent to: suzanne@medev.ac.uk

Last updated: 01 July 2011