This guide is intended to provide students in the College of Pharmacy with a starting point for research and study. It can also be used by students in other colleges who need drug information.
MicromedexMicromedex is a drug information database. Important Note: The Micromedex products are intended solely for the purpose of Western University authorized users who are trained or training in the fields for which the product is being utilized. The products are not to be used for clinical purposes or emergency response purposes.
UpToDate LexidrugUpToDate Lexidrug provides access to point-of-care drug information. Lexi-Comp links to AHFS Drug Information and AHFS Essentials for more detailed drug information. Researchers can also check for drug interactions; identify unknown medications based on imprint, dosage form, shape, or color; and access numerous medical calculators.
DailyMed is the official provider of FDA label information (package inserts).
Drug Facts
Drugs@FDAThe FDA's catalog of approved and tentatively approved prescription, over-the-counter, and discontinued drugs. Drugs@FDA also contains drug approval letters, labels, and review packages.
Discontinued DrugsThe American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists provides a list of drugs discontinued by the manufacturer and/or the FDA.
Drug ShortagesThe American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists' Drug Shortages Resource Center. Drug shortages can adversely affect drug therapy, compromise or delay medical procedures, and result in medication errors. ASHP and its partners work to keep the public informed of the most current drug shortages.
Orange Book - Generic EquivalentsThe FDA's approved drug products with therapeutic equivalence evaluations database. It is currently updated daily as new generic approvals occur.
RED BOOK - Drug PricingThe RED BOOK (part of Micromedex) contains information about drug pricing. Search for prescription or over the counter medications, nutraceuticals, bulk chemicals, medical devices or supplies by product name or manufacturer. Search for a specific active ingredient in the product or by a specific code (such as NDC, UPC, or HRI).
LACTMEDThe LactMed® database contains information on drugs and other chemicals to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed. It includes information on the levels of such substances in breast milk and infant blood, and the possible adverse effects in the nursing infant. Suggested therapeutic alternatives to those drugs are provided, where appropriate. All data are derived from the scientific literature and fully referenced. A peer review panel reviews the data to assure scientific validity and currency.
POISINDEXThe toxicology lookup feature of Micromedex is a reliable source of information for poisoning and overdose questions.
American Association of Poison Control CentersThe American Association of Poison Control Centers provides valuable consumer health information about poisonings, overdoses, and toxicology. Poison centers offer free, confidential medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. This service provides a primary resource for poisoning information and helps reduce costly emergency department visits through in-home treatment.
Medscape Pill IdentifierMedscape's Pill Identifier helps you to ID generic and brand name prescription drugs, OTCs, and supplements. Search from over 10,000 tablets and capsules by imprint, color, shape, form, and scoring.
Once a medication is selected, you will be able to:
Verify drug name, strength, and detailed pill characteristics
Access drug dosing, interactions, adverse effects, and warnings