Specialist Skin Formulary

Specials Recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists for Skin Disease [pdf / 2.47MB] BAD - Specials recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists for skin Disease

Background

Wherever possible the use of licensed medicines is encouraged to assure safety and efficacy. For many common dermatological

diseases including psoriasis and eczema, the range of licensed medicines is limited. As a result, Dermatology prescribing may

rely significantly on unlicensed creams and ointments (known as ‘Specials’) containing tars, dithranol, salicylic acid, steroids and

other active constituents in a range of concentrations and bases. This is of particular concern in primary care where lack of

effective price controls and a mechanism to ensure independent scrutiny of product quality has increased costs and concern

about standards.

To address these concerns and help to optimise quality of care Dermatology 'Specials' should only be prescribed from the

document:

'Specials Recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists for Skin Disease'

The prescribing of such products may be continued in Primary Care.

When a product is required that is not included in the 'BAD' list then the prescribing of such will remain with the Consultant/ Prescriber and may not be continued in Primary Care.

Where a preparation is required that is not listed in the BAD document then there is a requirement to submit a request to East

Lancashire Medicines Management Board (ELMMB) for the product to be considered for inclusion in the formulary.

All material in this section is aimed at health care professionals, but is information currently held in the public domain, members of the

public seeking advice on medicine-related matters are advised to speak with their GP, pharmacist, nurse or contact NHS111 Service.

Email: info.elmmb@nhs.net