The overall structure of this handbook is similar to that of the British National Formulary, with monographs arranged broadly by therapeutic category. When a drug has several different uses, these are brought together in a single monograph; this will allow the reader to appreciate in full range of actions, whether therapeutic or adverse. The safe and effective use of medicines requires a sound knowledge of pharmacology. When a drug illustrates a particular pharmacological principle, this is expanded on in the teaching point section at the end of the monograph. As readers use the book, they will increase their basic knowledge in this practical way.