Nepalese National Formulary – NNF

Nepalese National Formulary (NNF): A Comprehensive Guide for Rational Use of Medicines in Nepal

The Nepalese National Formulary (NNF) is a vital national document developed to provide reliable, unbiased, and evidence-based information on the medicines used in Nepal. It is intended to guide healthcare professionals—including doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and public health workers—at all levels of the healthcare system in their day-to-day clinical and pharmaceutical practices.

Why is the NNF Important?

With the rapid advancement of science, medicine, and pharmaceutical research, newer and more effective treatment options are becoming available. At the same time, older drugs are being phased out or replaced based on clinical outcomes. This dynamic nature of healthcare requires timely updates in national guidelines—and that’s where the Nepalese National Formulary plays its role.

The third edition of the NNF was meticulously prepared under the coordination of the Ministry of Health with expert contributions from professionals in various therapeutic areas. It serves not just as a medicine information resource but also as a tool for promoting rational prescribing, preventing adverse drug events, and ensuring patient safety.

Historical Background

The idea of a National Formulary was first introduced in 1982 by the Drug Advisory Committee.
The first edition was published in 1997.
The second edition came in 2010, with significant updates including INN names, ADR forms, and integration with the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM).
The third and current edition includes:
- 19 therapeutic chapters (including a new chapter on dentistry)
- Rational use guidelines
- Clear drug monographs with classification, indications, doses, interactions, and patient info
- Appendices with the latest NLEM 2016, ADR reporting form, and drug interactions

Structure of the Third Edition

The formulary is divided into three sections:

Rational Use Guidelines – promoting evidence-based prescribing and dispensing.
Therapeutic Drug Information – 19 chapters grouped by organ systems with detailed drug monographs.
Appendices – drug interaction references, ADR forms, and essential medicine lists.

Each drug is described with:

Dosage forms and strengths
Indications and contraindications
Dosage schedules
Adverse effects
Drug and food interactions
Important patient information

Who Should Use It?

Medical practitioners
Pharmacists and Pharmacy Assistants
Nurses
Health educators and program managers

This formulary is designed not only to assist with clinical decision-making but also to improve public health outcomes through the rational use of medicines.

Nepalese National Formulary 2018