What is a formulary in pharmacy?

A formulary in pharmacy is specifically defined as a list of medications that have been evaluated and approved for use within a particular healthcare system, such as a hospital or insurance plan. This curated list is intended to ensure that medications used are safe, effective, and cost-efficient, reflecting the system's preferences and policies.

The approval process typically involves a review of clinical evidence, cost considerations, and therapeutic alternatives to support optimal patient care. This controlled selection helps streamline prescribing practices and can aid in managing overall healthcare costs by promoting the use of preferred medications.

In contrast, the other options represent different aspects of pharmaceutical or healthcare management. A comprehensive guide for all medications would imply an exhaustive catalog that is not confined to a specific healthcare system and is therefore broader than a formulary. A pricing list for medications focuses solely on cost without approval or therapeutic context, while a database for patient prescriptions pertains to individual patient records rather than a system-wide list of approved drugs.