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Formulary
Chapter Summary Sheets
1.0 Gastro intestinal System
1.1 Dyspepsia and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
1.1.1 Antacids and simeticone
1.1.2 Compound alginates and proprietary indigestion preparations
1.2 Antispasmodics and other drugs altering gut motility
1.3 Antisecretory drugs and mucosal protectants
1.3.1 H2-receptor antagonists
1.3.5 Proton pump inhibitors
1.3.5.1 H.pylori eradication
1.4 Acute diarrhoea
1.5 Chronic bowel disorders
1.5.1 Aminosalicylates
1.5.1.1 Acute Exacerbation of ulcerative colitis
1.5.1.2 Maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis
1.5.2 Corticosteroids inflammatory bowel disease
1.5.3 Steroid-sparing treatment for inflammatory bowel disease
1.6 Laxatives
1.7 Local preparations for anal and rectal disorders
1.7.1 Soothing haemorrhoidal preparations
1.7.2 Compound haemorrhoidal preparations with corticosteroids
1.7.4 Management of anal fissures
1.9 Drugs affecting intestinal secretions
1.9.4 Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency
2.0 Cardiovascular System
2.1 Positive inotropic drugs
2.1.1 Cardiac glycosides
2.2 Diuretics
2.2.1 Thiazides and related diuretics
2.2.2 Loop diuretics
2.2.3 Potassium-sparing diuretics and aldosterone antagonists
2.2.4 Potassium-sparing diuretics with other diuretics
2.3 Anti-arrhythmic drugs
2.3.2 Drugs for arrhythmias
2.4 Beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs
2.5 Hypertension and heart failure
2.5.2 Centrally acting antihypertensive drugs
2.5.4 Alpha-adrenoceptor blocking drugs
2.5.5 Drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system
2.5.5.1 Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
2.5.5.2 Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists (AIIRAs/ARBs)
2.5.5.3 Renin inhibitors
2.6 Nitrates, calcium-channel blockers and other antianginal drugs
2.6.1 Nitrates
2.6.2 Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs)
2.6.3 Other antianginal drugs
2.6.4 Peripheral vasodilators and related drugs
2.7 Sympathomimetics
2.8 Anticoagulants and protamine
2.8.1 Parenteral anticoagulants
2.8.2 Oral anticoagulants
2.8.2.1 Atrial fibrillation
2.8.2.2 Treatment of pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis and prevention of recurrent
2.8.2.3 Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism in orthopaedics
2.8.2.4 Acute coronary syndrome
2.8.2.5 Prevention of Atherothrombotic events
2.9 Antiplatelet drugs
2.10 Stable angina, acute coronary syndromes and fibrinolysis
2.11 Antifibrinolytic drugs and haemostatics
2.12 Lipid-regulating drugs
Lipid Management Pathways
3.0 Respiratory System
3.1 Bronchodilators
3.1.1 Adrenoceptor agonists
3.1.1.1 Short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABA) [Asthma and COPD]
3.1.1.2 Long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABA) [COPD only]
3.1.2 Antimuscarinic bronchodilators– [COPD]
3.1.3 Theophylline
3.1.4 Compound bronchodilator preparations
3.1.5 Inhaler devices, peak flow meters and nebulisers
3.2 Corticosteroids
3.2.1 Single agent inhalers [asthma only]
3.2.2 Compound ICS/LABA preparations – [asthma]
3.2.3 Compound ICS/LABA preparations – COPD
3.2.4 Triple therapy inhalers [COPD]
3.2.5 Systemic Steroids
3.3 Leukotriene receptor antagonists and phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitors
3.3.2 Leukotriene receptor antagonists
3.3.3 Phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitors
3.4 Antihistamines, hyposensitisation and allergic emergencies
3.4.1 Antihistamines
3.4.1.1. Intranasal Corticosteroids
3.4.2 Allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation)
3.4.3 Allergic emergencies
3.6 Oxygen
3.7 Mucolytics
3.9 Cough preparations
3.9.1 Cough suppressants
4.0 Central Nervous System
4.1 Hypnotics and anxiolytics
4.1.1 Hypnotics
4.1.2 Anxiolytics
4.1.2.1 Acute anxiety state
4.1.2.2 Anxiety disorders
4.1.3 Barbiturates
4.2 Drugs used in psychoses and related disorders
4.2.1 Antipsychotic drugs
4.2.1.1 Management of agitation and aggression
4.2.3 Mood stabilising drugs
4.2.3.1 Treatment of the acute phase of mania
4.2.3.2 Maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder with mood stabilisers
4.3 Antidepressant drugs
4.3.1 Mild, moderate and severe depression
4.3.2 Antidepressants for the treatment of anxiety disorders*
4.3.2.1 Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder
4.3.2.2 Panic disorder
4.3.2.3 Post-traumatic stress disorder
4.3.2.4 Obsessive compulsive disorder
4.4 CNS stimulants and drugs used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
4.4.1 Narcolepsy
4.4.2 Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) in adults
4.6 Drugs used in nausea and vertigo
4.6.1 Drugs for the short-term treatment of nausea and vomiting
4.6.1.1 Motion sickness
4.6.2 Vertigo
4.7 Analgesics
4.7.1 General management of acute pain
4.7.1.1 Non-opioid & compound analgesics
4.7.1.2 Opioid analgesics
4.7.3 Neuropathic pain
4.7.4 Antimigraine drugs
4.7.4.1 Treatment of acute migraine attack
4.7.4.2 Migraine prophylaxis
4.7.4.3 Drug treatment of cluster headache
4.8 Anti-epileptics
4.9 Drugs used in parkinsonism and related disorders
4.9.1 Dopaminergic drugs used in parkinsonism
4.9.1.1 Dopamine receptor agonists
4.9.1.2 Levodopa
4.9.1.3 Monoamine-oxidase-B (MAOB) inhibitors
4.9.1.4 Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors (COMT inhibitors)
4.9.2 Antimuscarinic drugs used in parkinsonism
4.9.3 Essential tremor
4.9.4 Management of dementia in Parkinson’s disease
4.10 Medications used in substance use disorders
4.10.1 Opioid maintenance prescribing
4.10.2 Opioid detoxification
4.10.3 Benzodiazepine and Z drug withdrawal
4.10.4 Alcohol dependence
4.10.4.1 Acute alcohol withdrawal
4.10.4.2 Relapse Prevention
4.10.4.3 Interventions for the reduction of alcohol consumption
4.10.4.4 Vitamin supplementation
4.10.5 Cigarette smoking
4.11 Drugs for dementia
4.11.1 Management of Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD)
5.0 Infections (this section of the NIF includes children)
6.0 Endocrine
6.1 Diabetes
6.1.1 Insulins
6.1.2 Antidiabetic drugs
6.1.2.1 Biguanides
6.1.2.2 Sulfonylureas
6.1.2.3 Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4 inhibitors)
6.1.2.4 Glitazones (thiazolidinediones)
6.1.2.5 Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors
6.1.2.6 GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Sick Day rules
6.1.4 Treatment of hypoglycaemia
6.1.6 Diagnostic and monitoring agents for diabetes mellitus
Summary of oral drug treatments for type 2 diabetes
6.2 Thyroid and antithyroid drugs and parathyroid disease
6.2.1 Hypothyroidism
6.2.2 Hyperthyroidism
6.2.2.1 Antithyroid drugs
6.2.2.2 Beta-blockers
6.2.3 Parathyroid disease
6.2.3.1 Hyperparathyroidism
6.3 Corticosteroids
6.3.1 Replacement therapy
6.3.2 Glucocorticoid therapy
6.4 Sex hormones
6.4.1 Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms
6.4.1a Women who have not had a total hysterectomy
6.4.1b Women who have had a total hysterectomy or who have a suitable LNG IUS in situ < 5 years
6.4.2 Male sex hormones
6.6 Drugs affecting bone metabolism
Drugs for the treatment and management of osteoporosis
6.6.1. Calcium and vitamin D
6.6.2 Bisphosphonates
6.6.3 Other drug therapies used in osteoporosis
6.7 Other endocrine drugs
7.0 Contraception, Gynaecology and Urinary Tract Disorders
7.1.1 Primary dysmenorrhoea
7.1.2 Heavy menstrual bleeding
7.1.3 Endometriosis-related pain
7.1.6 Premenstrual syndrome
7.1.7 Polycystic ovarian syndrome
7.2 Treatment of vaginal and vulval conditions
7.2.1 Topical HRT for vaginal atrophy
7.2.2 Vaginal and vulval infections
7.2.3 Lichen Sclerosus (adult female) – if no diagnostic uncertainty
7.3 Contraceptives
7.3.1 Combined hormonal oral contraceptives (COCs)
7.3.2 Progestogen-only contraceptives
7.3.2.1 Oral progestogen-only pills (POPs)
7.3.2.2 Progestogen-only Injectables
7.3.2.3. Intrauterine progesterone: levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS)
7.3.4 Contraceptive devices
7.3.5 Emergency contraception
7.3.6 Delaying Menstruation
7.4 Drugs for genito-urinary disorders
7.4.1 Drugs for voiding (obstructive) symptoms in men
7.4.2 Drugs for Urinary Frequency and Incontinence
7.4.5 Drugs for erectile dysfunction
8.0 Malignant Disease and Immunosuppression
9.0 Nutrition and Blood
9.1 Anaemias and some other blood disorders
9.1.1 Iron deficiency anaemia
9.1.2 Drugs used in megaloblastic anaemias
9.4 Oral Nutrition
9.4.1 Step 1-Identification of nutritional risk
9.4.2-Step 2-Underlying causes of malnutrition
9.4.3-Step 3-Set Goals
9.4.4-Step 4-Discuss ‘Food First’ dietary advice
9.4.5-Step 5-Prescribe ONS
9.4.5.1-ONS First Line Products
9.4.5.2-Dietitian Led Products
9.4.6-Step 6-Review need for ONS
9.4.7 Step 7-When to Discontinue ONS
9.5 Minerals
9.5.1.1 Calcium supplement
9.6 Vitamins
9.6.2 Vitamin B group
9.6.4 Vitamin D
9.6.7 Multivitamins
Infant Feeding
Supplementations in pregnancy/ pre-conception
Wound management and nutrition
Gluten free prescribing
Palliative Care
10.0 Musculoskeletal and Joint Diseases
10.1 Drugs use in rheumatic diseases and gout
10.1.1 Oral NSAIDs
10.1.2 Corticosteroids
10.1.2.1 Systemic corticosteroids
10.1.2.2 Local corticosteroid injections
10.1.3 Drugs that suppress the rheumatic disease process (specialist treatments)
10.1.4 Gout
10.1.4.1 Acute attacks of gout
10.1.4.2 Prevention of recurrent attacks – Urate Lowering Therapy (ULT)
10.1.5 Other drugs for rheumatic diseases
10.2 Drugs used in neuromuscular disorders
10.2.1 Fibromyalgia
10.2.2 Skeletal muscle relaxants
10.2.3 Nocturnal Leg Cramps
10.3 Topical NSAIDs
11.0 Eye
11.6 Glaucoma
11.8.1 Dry eye
12.0 Ear, Nose and Oropharynx
13.0 Skin
13.1 Management of skin conditions
13.2 Emollients and barrier preparations
13.2.1 Emollients
13.2.1.1 Emollient bath and shower preparations
13.2.2 Barrier preparations
13.3. Topical local anaesthetics and antipruretics
13.4 Topical corticosteroids
13.4.1 Topical corticosteroids with antimicrobials
13.5 Preparations for eczema and psoriasis
13.5.1 Preparations for eczema
13.5.2. Preparations for psoriasis
13.5.2.1 Trunk and Limbs
13.5.2.1 Scalp
13.5.2.1 Face or Flexures
13.5.3 Drugs affecting the immune response (specialist treatments)
13.6 Acne and rosacea
13.6.1. Acne
13.6.2 Rosacea-topical and oral treatment
13.7 Preparations for warts and calluses
13.8 Sunscreens and camouflagers
13.8.1. Sunscreen preparations
13.8.1.1 Photodamage (actinic keratosis)
Field Changes
13.8.2 Camouflagers
13.9 Shampoos and other preparations for scalp and hair conditions
13.10 Anti-infective skin preparations
13.10.1.1. Antibacterial preparations only used topically
13.10.1.2. Antibacterial preparations also used systemically
13.10.2 Antifungal preparations
13.10.3 Antiviral preparations
13.10.4 Parasiticidal preparations
13.11 Skin cleansers, antiseptics, and desloughing agents
13.11.2 Chlorhexidine salts
13.12 Antiperspirants
14.0 Anaesthesia
15.0 Stoma Care Accessory Formulary
15.1 Adhesive Removers
15.2 Barrier Products
15.3 Discharge solidifying agents
15.4 Flange extenders
15.5 Lubricating deodorants
15.6 Seals
15.7 Stoma Pastes and Powders
Wound Care Formulary (Dressings)
Newsletters & Publications
Antimicrobial Stewardship
Urinary Tract Infections
Skip the Dip
Melatonin Paediatric Product Selection
Melatonin Liquid Community Pharmacy Ready Reckoner
Melatonin Paediatric Product Selection Guide
PCE Bulletins
Medicines Management Newsletters
Volume 17- 2026
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Volume 15- 2024
Volume 14-2023
Volume 13 – 2022
Volume 12 – 2021
Volume 11 – 2020
Volume 10 – 2019
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Volume 7 – 2016
Volume 6 – 2015
Volume 5 – 2014
Volume 4 – 2013
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2019
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Cost Effective Choices
HSC Agreed list of Paediatric liquid medicines’
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Swallowing Difficulties & Thickening Agents
Travel Vaccine Advice
Proton pump inhibitors in paediatrics
Regional Supply Arrangements for Rarely Used Urgent Medicines (RUUM)
Antidotes
Antidotes: Commonly held
Antidotes: For deliberate release of noxious agents
Antidotes: Glucarpidase
Antidotes: Pralidoxime
Antidotes: Sodium calcium edetate
Antidotes: Succimer (DMSA)
Antidotes: Unithiol (DMPS)
Antidotes: Berlin Blue (Prussian Blue)
Antitoxins
Antitoxins: Botulinum
Antitoxins: Diphtheria
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Antivenoms: Antivenom Sera
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Antivirals: Avian Flu
Immunoglobulins
Immunoglobulin: Hepatitis B
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Immunoglobulin: Varicella Zoster
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Vaccine: Anthrax
Vaccine: Rabies Human Diploid Cell
Document Library
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Eye Care
Dry Eyes
Treatment of Blepharitis
Generics
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Hayfever
Heart Failure
Heartburn and Reflux
Reflux in Children
Administration of Lansoprazole Orodispersible
Administration of Omeprazole
Know Check Ask
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Benzodiazepines and Z Drugs
Good Relaxation Guide
Good Sleep Guide
Recovery Colleges
Choice and Medication Website
Northern Ireland Formulary-the right medicine for you
Nutrition
Coeliac Disease
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Anti-Reflux formula
Lactose-free formula
Management of Colic
Management of cow’s milk allergy
Vitamins
Vitamin B12
Obesity
Ordering your Prescription
Only order what you need!
Osteoporosis
Bisphosphonate Drug Holiday
Useful links from Royal Osteoporosis Society
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Understanding Pain
Pain self-management resources for patients
Managing Your Pain Effectively Using “Over the Counter” Medicines
Opioid Medicines and the Risk of Addiction
Medication for Pain – Patient Information Leaflets
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Go Ahead – treat yourself!
Have you had your annual medication review?
Your Child’s Medicines
Your Medicines – Effective Partnership in Care
Skin
Emollient bath and shower preparations
Stoma Appliances and Accessories
Travel Advice
Useful links
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Development and Review of the Formulary
Prescribing Guidance Editorial Group Meeting Dates 2026
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Home
Formulary
Chapter Summary Sheets
1.0 Gastro intestinal System
1.1 Dyspepsia and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
1.1.1 Antacids and simeticone
1.1.2 Compound alginates and proprietary indigestion preparations
1.2 Antispasmodics and other drugs altering gut motility
1.3 Antisecretory drugs and mucosal protectants
1.3.1 H2-receptor antagonists
1.3.5 Proton pump inhibitors
1.3.5.1 H.pylori eradication
1.4 Acute diarrhoea
1.5 Chronic bowel disorders
1.5.1 Aminosalicylates
1.5.1.1 Acute Exacerbation of ulcerative colitis
1.5.1.2 Maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis
1.5.2 Corticosteroids inflammatory bowel disease
1.5.3 Steroid-sparing treatment for inflammatory bowel disease
1.6 Laxatives
1.7 Local preparations for anal and rectal disorders
1.7.1 Soothing haemorrhoidal preparations
1.7.2 Compound haemorrhoidal preparations with corticosteroids
1.7.4 Management of anal fissures
1.9 Drugs affecting intestinal secretions
1.9.4 Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency
2.0 Cardiovascular System
2.1 Positive inotropic drugs
2.1.1 Cardiac glycosides
2.2 Diuretics
2.2.1 Thiazides and related diuretics
2.2.2 Loop diuretics
2.2.3 Potassium-sparing diuretics and aldosterone antagonists
2.2.4 Potassium-sparing diuretics with other diuretics
2.3 Anti-arrhythmic drugs
2.3.2 Drugs for arrhythmias
2.4 Beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs
2.5 Hypertension and heart failure
2.5.2 Centrally acting antihypertensive drugs
2.5.4 Alpha-adrenoceptor blocking drugs
2.5.5 Drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system
2.5.5.1 Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
2.5.5.2 Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists (AIIRAs/ARBs)
2.5.5.3 Renin inhibitors
2.6 Nitrates, calcium-channel blockers and other antianginal drugs
2.6.1 Nitrates
2.6.2 Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs)
2.6.3 Other antianginal drugs
2.6.4 Peripheral vasodilators and related drugs
2.7 Sympathomimetics
2.8 Anticoagulants and protamine
2.8.1 Parenteral anticoagulants
2.8.2 Oral anticoagulants
2.8.2.1 Atrial fibrillation
2.8.2.2 Treatment of pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis and prevention of recurrent
2.8.2.3 Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism in orthopaedics
2.8.2.4 Acute coronary syndrome
2.8.2.5 Prevention of Atherothrombotic events
2.9 Antiplatelet drugs
2.10 Stable angina, acute coronary syndromes and fibrinolysis
2.11 Antifibrinolytic drugs and haemostatics
2.12 Lipid-regulating drugs
Lipid Management Pathways
3.0 Respiratory System
3.1 Bronchodilators
3.1.1 Adrenoceptor agonists
3.1.1.1 Short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABA) [Asthma and COPD]
3.1.1.2 Long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABA) [COPD only]
3.1.2 Antimuscarinic bronchodilators– [COPD]
3.1.3 Theophylline
3.1.4 Compound bronchodilator preparations
3.1.5 Inhaler devices, peak flow meters and nebulisers
3.2 Corticosteroids
3.2.1 Single agent inhalers [asthma only]
3.2.2 Compound ICS/LABA preparations – [asthma]
3.2.3 Compound ICS/LABA preparations – COPD
3.2.4 Triple therapy inhalers [COPD]
3.2.5 Systemic Steroids
3.3 Leukotriene receptor antagonists and phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitors
3.3.2 Leukotriene receptor antagonists
3.3.3 Phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitors
3.4 Antihistamines, hyposensitisation and allergic emergencies
3.4.1 Antihistamines
3.4.1.1. Intranasal Corticosteroids
3.4.2 Allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation)
3.4.3 Allergic emergencies
3.6 Oxygen
3.7 Mucolytics
3.9 Cough preparations
3.9.1 Cough suppressants
4.0 Central Nervous System
4.1 Hypnotics and anxiolytics
4.1.1 Hypnotics
4.1.2 Anxiolytics
4.1.2.1 Acute anxiety state
4.1.2.2 Anxiety disorders
4.1.3 Barbiturates
4.2 Drugs used in psychoses and related disorders
4.2.1 Antipsychotic drugs
4.2.1.1 Management of agitation and aggression
4.2.3 Mood stabilising drugs
4.2.3.1 Treatment of the acute phase of mania
4.2.3.2 Maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder with mood stabilisers
4.3 Antidepressant drugs
4.3.1 Mild, moderate and severe depression
4.3.2 Antidepressants for the treatment of anxiety disorders*
4.3.2.1 Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder
4.3.2.2 Panic disorder
4.3.2.3 Post-traumatic stress disorder
4.3.2.4 Obsessive compulsive disorder
4.4 CNS stimulants and drugs used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
4.4.1 Narcolepsy
4.4.2 Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) in adults
4.6 Drugs used in nausea and vertigo
4.6.1 Drugs for the short-term treatment of nausea and vomiting
4.6.1.1 Motion sickness
4.6.2 Vertigo
4.7 Analgesics
4.7.1 General management of acute pain
4.7.1.1 Non-opioid & compound analgesics
4.7.1.2 Opioid analgesics
4.7.3 Neuropathic pain
4.7.4 Antimigraine drugs
4.7.4.1 Treatment of acute migraine attack
4.7.4.2 Migraine prophylaxis
4.7.4.3 Drug treatment of cluster headache
4.8 Anti-epileptics
4.9 Drugs used in parkinsonism and related disorders
4.9.1 Dopaminergic drugs used in parkinsonism
4.9.1.1 Dopamine receptor agonists
4.9.1.2 Levodopa
4.9.1.3 Monoamine-oxidase-B (MAOB) inhibitors
4.9.1.4 Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors (COMT inhibitors)
4.9.2 Antimuscarinic drugs used in parkinsonism
4.9.3 Essential tremor
4.9.4 Management of dementia in Parkinson’s disease
4.10 Medications used in substance use disorders
4.10.1 Opioid maintenance prescribing
4.10.2 Opioid detoxification
4.10.3 Benzodiazepine and Z drug withdrawal
4.10.4 Alcohol dependence
4.10.4.1 Acute alcohol withdrawal
4.10.4.2 Relapse Prevention
4.10.4.3 Interventions for the reduction of alcohol consumption
4.10.4.4 Vitamin supplementation
4.10.5 Cigarette smoking
4.11 Drugs for dementia
4.11.1 Management of Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD)
5.0 Infections (this section of the NIF includes children)
6.0 Endocrine
6.1 Diabetes
6.1.1 Insulins
6.1.2 Antidiabetic drugs
6.1.2.1 Biguanides
6.1.2.2 Sulfonylureas
6.1.2.3 Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4 inhibitors)
6.1.2.4 Glitazones (thiazolidinediones)
6.1.2.5 Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors
6.1.2.6 GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Sick Day rules
6.1.4 Treatment of hypoglycaemia
6.1.6 Diagnostic and monitoring agents for diabetes mellitus
Summary of oral drug treatments for type 2 diabetes
6.2 Thyroid and antithyroid drugs and parathyroid disease
6.2.1 Hypothyroidism
6.2.2 Hyperthyroidism
6.2.2.1 Antithyroid drugs
6.2.2.2 Beta-blockers
6.2.3 Parathyroid disease
6.2.3.1 Hyperparathyroidism
6.3 Corticosteroids
6.3.1 Replacement therapy
6.3.2 Glucocorticoid therapy
6.4 Sex hormones
6.4.1 Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms
6.4.1a Women who have not had a total hysterectomy
6.4.1b Women who have had a total hysterectomy or who have a suitable LNG IUS in situ < 5 years
6.4.2 Male sex hormones
6.6 Drugs affecting bone metabolism
Drugs for the treatment and management of osteoporosis
6.6.1. Calcium and vitamin D
6.6.2 Bisphosphonates
6.6.3 Other drug therapies used in osteoporosis
6.7 Other endocrine drugs
7.0 Contraception, Gynaecology and Urinary Tract Disorders
7.1.1 Primary dysmenorrhoea
7.1.2 Heavy menstrual bleeding
7.1.3 Endometriosis-related pain
7.1.6 Premenstrual syndrome
7.1.7 Polycystic ovarian syndrome
7.2 Treatment of vaginal and vulval conditions
7.2.1 Topical HRT for vaginal atrophy
7.2.2 Vaginal and vulval infections
7.2.3 Lichen Sclerosus (adult female) – if no diagnostic uncertainty
7.3 Contraceptives
7.3.1 Combined hormonal oral contraceptives (COCs)
7.3.2 Progestogen-only contraceptives
7.3.2.1 Oral progestogen-only pills (POPs)
7.3.2.2 Progestogen-only Injectables
7.3.2.3. Intrauterine progesterone: levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS)
7.3.4 Contraceptive devices
7.3.5 Emergency contraception
7.3.6 Delaying Menstruation
7.4 Drugs for genito-urinary disorders
7.4.1 Drugs for voiding (obstructive) symptoms in men
7.4.2 Drugs for Urinary Frequency and Incontinence
7.4.5 Drugs for erectile dysfunction
8.0 Malignant Disease and Immunosuppression
9.0 Nutrition and Blood
9.1 Anaemias and some other blood disorders
9.1.1 Iron deficiency anaemia
9.1.2 Drugs used in megaloblastic anaemias
9.4 Oral Nutrition
9.4.1 Step 1-Identification of nutritional risk
9.4.2-Step 2-Underlying causes of malnutrition
9.4.3-Step 3-Set Goals
9.4.4-Step 4-Discuss ‘Food First’ dietary advice
9.4.5-Step 5-Prescribe ONS
9.4.5.1-ONS First Line Products
9.4.5.2-Dietitian Led Products
9.4.6-Step 6-Review need for ONS
9.4.7 Step 7-When to Discontinue ONS
9.5 Minerals
9.5.1.1 Calcium supplement
9.6 Vitamins
9.6.2 Vitamin B group
9.6.4 Vitamin D
9.6.7 Multivitamins
Infant Feeding
Supplementations in pregnancy/ pre-conception
Wound management and nutrition
Gluten free prescribing
Palliative Care
10.0 Musculoskeletal and Joint Diseases
10.1 Drugs use in rheumatic diseases and gout
10.1.1 Oral NSAIDs
10.1.2 Corticosteroids
10.1.2.1 Systemic corticosteroids
10.1.2.2 Local corticosteroid injections
10.1.3 Drugs that suppress the rheumatic disease process (specialist treatments)
10.1.4 Gout
10.1.4.1 Acute attacks of gout
10.1.4.2 Prevention of recurrent attacks – Urate Lowering Therapy (ULT)
10.1.5 Other drugs for rheumatic diseases
10.2 Drugs used in neuromuscular disorders
10.2.1 Fibromyalgia
10.2.2 Skeletal muscle relaxants
10.2.3 Nocturnal Leg Cramps
10.3 Topical NSAIDs
11.0 Eye
11.6 Glaucoma
11.8.1 Dry eye
12.0 Ear, Nose and Oropharynx
13.0 Skin
13.1 Management of skin conditions
13.2 Emollients and barrier preparations
13.2.1 Emollients
13.2.1.1 Emollient bath and shower preparations
13.2.2 Barrier preparations
13.3. Topical local anaesthetics and antipruretics
13.4 Topical corticosteroids
13.4.1 Topical corticosteroids with antimicrobials
13.5 Preparations for eczema and psoriasis
13.5.1 Preparations for eczema
13.5.2. Preparations for psoriasis
13.5.2.1 Trunk and Limbs
13.5.2.1 Scalp
13.5.2.1 Face or Flexures
13.5.3 Drugs affecting the immune response (specialist treatments)
13.6 Acne and rosacea
13.6.1. Acne
13.6.2 Rosacea-topical and oral treatment
13.7 Preparations for warts and calluses
13.8 Sunscreens and camouflagers
13.8.1. Sunscreen preparations
13.8.1.1 Photodamage (actinic keratosis)
Field Changes
13.8.2 Camouflagers
13.9 Shampoos and other preparations for scalp and hair conditions
13.10 Anti-infective skin preparations
13.10.1.1. Antibacterial preparations only used topically
13.10.1.2. Antibacterial preparations also used systemically
13.10.2 Antifungal preparations
13.10.3 Antiviral preparations
13.10.4 Parasiticidal preparations
13.11 Skin cleansers, antiseptics, and desloughing agents
13.11.2 Chlorhexidine salts
13.12 Antiperspirants
14.0 Anaesthesia
15.0 Stoma Care Accessory Formulary
15.1 Adhesive Removers
15.2 Barrier Products
15.3 Discharge solidifying agents
15.4 Flange extenders
15.5 Lubricating deodorants
15.6 Seals
15.7 Stoma Pastes and Powders
Wound Care Formulary (Dressings)
Newsletters & Publications
Antimicrobial Stewardship
Urinary Tract Infections
Skip the Dip
Melatonin Paediatric Product Selection
Melatonin Liquid Community Pharmacy Ready Reckoner
Melatonin Paediatric Product Selection Guide
PCE Bulletins
Medicines Management Newsletters
Volume 17- 2026
Volume 16- 2025
Volume 15- 2024
Volume 14-2023
Volume 13 – 2022
Volume 12 – 2021
Volume 11 – 2020
Volume 10 – 2019
Volume 9 – 2018
Volume 8 – 2017
Volume 7 – 2016
Volume 6 – 2015
Volume 5 – 2014
Volume 4 – 2013
Volume 3 – 2012
Supplements
Pharmacy Regional News – ‘PRN’
2025
2024
2023
2022
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
Cost Effective Choices
HSC Agreed list of Paediatric liquid medicines’
Generic Prescribing Newsletters and Exception List
Swallowing Difficulties & Thickening Agents
Travel Vaccine Advice
Proton pump inhibitors in paediatrics
Regional Supply Arrangements for Rarely Used Urgent Medicines (RUUM)
Antidotes
Antidotes: Commonly held
Antidotes: For deliberate release of noxious agents
Antidotes: Glucarpidase
Antidotes: Pralidoxime
Antidotes: Sodium calcium edetate
Antidotes: Succimer (DMSA)
Antidotes: Unithiol (DMPS)
Antidotes: Berlin Blue (Prussian Blue)
Antitoxins
Antitoxins: Botulinum
Antitoxins: Diphtheria
Antivenoms
Antivenoms: Antivenom Sera
Antivirals
Antivirals: Avian Flu
Immunoglobulins
Immunoglobulin: Hepatitis B
Immunoglobulin: Human Normal
Immunoglobulin: Human Rabies
Immunoglobulin: Varicella Zoster
Vaccines
Vaccine: Anthrax
Vaccine: Rabies Human Diploid Cell
Document Library
Managed Entry
Managed Entry Decisions
Policy Context
Cost-per-Case Requests
Treatments not included within ME-Individual Funding Requests
Managed Entry of Biosimilars
NICE Clinical Guidelines- Process for Endorsement
Deprescribing & OTC
Deprescribing and Polypharmacy Guides
IMPACT Tool
SPPG Deprescribing Supplement
Prescribing Stop List
OTC
Painkillers
Anticholinergic Burden
Bisphosphonate Review
Patient Area
5 Moments for Medication Safety
Anaphylaxis
Anticholinergic Medicine
Asthma and COPD
Am I using my inhaler correctly?
Accuhaler
Aerolizer
Autohaler
Breezehaler
Clickhaler
Easibreathe
Easyhaler
Ellipta
Fospiro
Genuair
Metered Dose Inhaler
Metered Dose Inhaler with Large Volume Spacer
Metered Dose Inhaler with Small Volume Spacer
NEXThaler
Novolizer
Respimat
Spiriva Handihaler
Spiromax
Turbohaler
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Diabetes
Your Guide to SGLT2 Inhibitor Medicines
Epilepsy
Generic prescribing of antiepileptic medicines
Lamotrigine information
Eye Care
Dry Eyes
Treatment of Blepharitis
Generics
Generic Prescribing of Antiepileptic Medicines
Hayfever
Heart Failure
Heartburn and Reflux
Reflux in Children
Administration of Lansoprazole Orodispersible
Administration of Omeprazole
Know Check Ask
Mental Health (including sleep and relaxation)
Benzodiazepines and Z Drugs
Good Relaxation Guide
Good Sleep Guide
Recovery Colleges
Choice and Medication Website
Northern Ireland Formulary-the right medicine for you
Nutrition
Coeliac Disease
Infant Nutrition
Anti-Reflux formula
Lactose-free formula
Management of Colic
Management of cow’s milk allergy
Vitamins
Vitamin B12
Obesity
Ordering your Prescription
Only order what you need!
Osteoporosis
Bisphosphonate Drug Holiday
Useful links from Royal Osteoporosis Society
Pain
Understanding Pain
Pain self-management resources for patients
Managing Your Pain Effectively Using “Over the Counter” Medicines
Opioid Medicines and the Risk of Addiction
Medication for Pain – Patient Information Leaflets
Self Care
Go Ahead – treat yourself!
Have you had your annual medication review?
Your Child’s Medicines
Your Medicines – Effective Partnership in Care
Skin
Emollient bath and shower preparations
Stoma Appliances and Accessories
Travel Advice
Useful links
About & Contact
Development and Review of the Formulary
Prescribing Guidance Editorial Group Meeting Dates 2026
Contact Us
46401 Health Social Care - Painkillers A5 Leaflet v5
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Created: 05/08/2025
Updated: 05/08/2025
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