Dermatologic formulary.

The formulary for dermatologic use in the emergency department must not only encompass drugs that are essential for advanced cardiac and trauma life support, but must have specific drugs that are indicated for common dermatologic conditions that are evaluated in the emergency department. First and foremost is the selection of the appropriate drug for the disease. Other factors, such as the vehicle in which the drug is compounded, become equally important, as this directly affects the delivery of medication to the patient. Although this formulary is by no means complete, it is a reasonable guide for emergency medicine physicians to utilize when comtemplating dermatologic care. It is important when selecting a drug for dermatologic care that the physician be cognizant of the patient--the type, location, and condition of the skin--and of the disease he or she is treating. When these factors are given due consideration, the appropriate drug for the disease will be utilized for the ultimate benefit of the patient.