Practical Prescribing for Musculoskeletal Practitioners

This book is intended as a convenient guide for non-medical prescribers caring for patients with musculoskeletal problems. It includes an overview of the current legislation on prescribing and accountability and the principles of safe prescribing are clearly defined. The chapters give practical advice for prescribing disease-modifying drugs, biologics, analgesia, systemic steroids and drugs used in osteoporosis and gout. Basic information is provided on each drug, including the mechanism of action where known, evidence grading, dosage and contraindications. We hope that autonomous practitioners requiring the evidence base and rationale needed for prescribing for patients with musculoskeletal disorders will find this book indispensable. Naturally, although key side effects are listed, it was not possible to provide an exhaustive list for each drug in such a small volume. We suggest that practitioners check the British National Formulary (BNF), updated every six months) and the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) updated daily) for new and all reported side effects, contraindications and interactions.