British National Formulary

British National Formulary (BNF) is a UK pharmaceutical reference book that contains a wide spectrum of information and advice on prescribing and pharmacology, along with specific facts and details about many medicines available on the NHS.

Overview

The BNF is jointly authored by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and the British Medical Association. It aims to provide healthcare professionals with sound up-to-date information about the use of medicines. The BNF includes key information on the selection, prescribing, dispensing and administration of medicines.

Content

The BNF contains a wealth of information about drugs, their side effects, interactions, and their use in special circumstances such as pregnancy and breastfeeding. It also provides advice on the treatment of common diseases.

Format

The BNF is divided into several sections, each covering a different aspect of pharmacology. These include:

• General guidance
• Clinical guidelines
• Drug monographs
• Appendices and indices

Usage

The BNF is used by healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and others across the globe. It is also used by medical and pharmacy students for study purposes.

Updates

The BNF is updated in print every six months by an expert team of pharmacists, with guidance and validation from clinicians and other healthcare professionals.

See also

• Pharmacopoeia
• Pharmacy
• Pharmacology
• Medicine