Rx Note

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. Howev...

Introduction Still vivid in my mind, when comes to paediatric dosing, we should not treat a child as a "mini adult". As children mature physically, their physiological systems develop at varying rates. In general, absorption, plasma protein binding, metabolism and excretion are lower in children. Hence, maintenance dosage (on a mg/kg/day basis) are generally smaller than those of adults. Whenever possible, medicines for children should be prescribed within the terms of marketing authorization (product license). However, in reality, many drugs are used off-label for the neonate and paediatric population. There is a helpful description of what "off-label" means for children and parents on the Medicines For Children website. References Besides product leaflets, commonly used drug dosing references for neonates and pediatrics are Malaysia: MIMS Malaysia , Paediatric Protocols for Malaysian Hospitals 2025 United States: Lexicomp , Micromedex (Drug Reference, Pediatric...

Introduction A colleague once stumped me with a question: "What is the medical term for coughing out blood?". My mind went blank for a moment. In outpatient pharmacy, we are trained to avoid medical jargons with patients. There are also times when patients describe symptoms in their native language (such as Mandarin), adding another layer to communication challenge. NOTE: Each medical term has a root word that forms the foundation of its meaning. Prefixes and suffixes are then added to modify of clarify that meaning. Prefixes A, as in atypical - Opposite of the word Bi, as in bilateral - Pertaining to two or both sides. Brady, as in bradykinesia - Slow Cardio, as in cardiologist - Heart Dys, as in dysmenorrhea - Painful Enceph, as in encephalopathy - Brain Endo, as in endoscope - Within Eu, as in euthyroid - Normal Glyco, as in glycosuria - Sweet Haem, as in haematuria - Blood Hepato, as in hepatotoxicity - Liver Hetero, as in heterosexual - Different, other Homo, as in homo...

Introduction Light exposure causes photodegradation, which destroys some drugs, and in some cases, increases a drug's toxicity (e.g. nitroprusside). Many medications should be protected from light during storage to avoid degradation. Some medications are supplied in amber (light-protected) vials, while others are stored in the original packaging (foil overwrap or box) until needed. Protect During Administration A small number of drugs are so light-sensitive that they require protection from light during administration. In some cases, pharmacy staff dispense these medications with a light-protective tubing (generally amber-coloured). Examples Amphotericin B Doxorubicin Doxycycline Pegfilgrastim and biosimilars Phytonadione Selexipag Sodium nitroprusside Thiotepa - subject to manufacturer External Links Light-sensitive injectable prescription drugs, 2014 Light-Sensitive Injectable Prescription Drugs, 2022

Introduction It may sound laughable when a fresh pharmacy graduate asked you, is the dosing of a particular drug to give half a tablet or two tablets a day acceptable or not. After working for a while, you probably realise not all drugs should be dosed one tablet a day (though lots of them are). Many years later, with experience, you may also become familiar with most common drugs dosing. However, before becoming a senior pharmacist, we should learn on drug dosing by actively checking drug references. When we are dispensing medications to patients, it is better to check each time whenever you are in doubt. Once the medication is dispensed, we bear part of responsibility. References Ideally, we would like to have a single extensive medicine reference exists which covers all the drugs marketed in Malaysia. But, it does not exist, not even MIMS Malaysia . This is because the list of drugs marketed in each country is slightly different. Nonetheless, the commonly used drug references are ...