RxLookup

Introduction

In August 2018, I launched a self-initiated drug database project, called "RxLookup".

• My motivation stemmed from a lack of existing databases that met my daily workplace needs, combined with a desire for a more organized way to document my reading material.
• Furthermore, existing unofficial MOH Formulary mobile applications were infrequently updated and required users to pay a fee to remove advertisements.
• It wasn't until early March 2025 that the official MyFormulary app was launched by the Ministry of Health, Malaysia.

About the Project

As a full-time pharmacist at a government hospital in Malaysia, I built this self-initiated database on the foundation of the Malaysia Ministry of Health Medicines Formulary (MOHMF).

• In daily practice, we frequently consult the MOHMF for crucial details such as prescriber categories, approved indications and procurement methods.
• The formulary also comprises a vast selection of cost-effective, essential medications.

However, to maximize the comprehensiveness of my database,

• Brand name searches have been prioritized to include both innovator (original) brand and local generic brands for oral medications.
• This is because doctors frequently prescribe medications using proprietary brand names.
• Moreover, many community pharmacy customers primarily recognize their medications by brand.
• Additionally, numerous registered products - such as over-the-counter (OTC) medications, supplements and drugs not listed in the MOHMF - have been included.
• Many first-line drugs are registered in Malaysia but excluded from the official formulary due to cost considerations.
• Whenever applicable, each product entry concludes with a practical, appropriately cited "Notes" section, organized as follows:
• Indications and off-label uses (including recommended dosages)
• Oral medication administration guidelines
• Patient counseling points
• Essential clinical pearls (including adverse drug reactions and role in therapy)
• Storage requirements (e.g., cold-chain item)

Despite ongoing efforts, this database does not encompass every aspect of drug information.

• It currently lacks comprehensive details on pediatric dosage, pregnancy and breastfeeding safety, product stability, drug interactions, and renal or hepatic dosage adjustment.

Now Available!

After months of dedicated work, my self-initiated drug database is finally live:

RxLookup (Progressive Web App)

• RxLookup is a drug database PWA built using vibe coding, designed to work completely offline once fully synced.
• Upon loading the web app for the first time, click the “Sync Drug Data” button to download the entries into your local storage. This process may take a few minutes depending on your device’s processor and internet speed.
• To aid in visual drug identification, a separate PWA RxAlbum was created.

NOTE: To ensure users always have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information, the offline drug database previously provided via Mdict has been discontinued due to low active usage and high maintenance effort. The AppSheet version of RxLookup has been retired due to the unsustainable USD 50/month licensing cost for public deployment, and using prototype mode for public distribution violates AppSheet’s Terms of Service. Moving forward, full development and updates will focus exclusively on the RxLookup PWA.

Summary

The "RxLookup" drug database project is a personal initiative born out of my passion for compiling and organizing pharmaceutical data.

• While I strive for strict accuracy through careful verification, the database's comprehensiveness is inherently limited by my individual clinical insights.
• Furthermore, due to full-time work and family commitments, timely updates cannot always be guaranteed.

This database is intended strictly as a quick reference tool and must never replace independent research or professional clinical judgment.

• When in doubt, always consult definitive, reliable clinical sources, such as UpToDate Lexidrug, Micromedex, Medscape, and the British National Formulary.