BNF Interactions Appendix
The lookup table that catches dangerous drug combinations before they happen.
What it is
About BNF Interactions Appendix
The Interactions Appendix (now integrated as a searchable interaction checker in the digital BNF) lists pairs and groups of drugs known to interact, graded by severity and clinical significance, along with guidance on managing or avoiding the combination. Pharmacists and prescribers use it routinely when a patient is on multiple medicines to check for contraindicated or risky combinations before dispensing or administering.
What you can do with it
Capabilities
Check for known interactions between two or more prescribed drugs
Assess the clinical severity and significance of a flagged interaction
Get guidance on managing or avoiding a risky drug combination
Support safe polypharmacy management for patients on multiple medicines
Cross-check interactions before dispensing or administering a new prescription
How to learn it
Learning Resources
The free BNF website's interactions checker tool
NHS and university pharmacology modules covering polypharmacy risk
Royal Pharmaceutical Society CPD resources on medicines safety
Supervised practice screening real multi-drug prescriptions during placement
Pro Tip
Don't rely on memory for combinations involving anticoagulants, MAOIs or drugs with a narrow therapeutic index — always run these specific classes through the interaction checker.
Skills that use this tool
Roles that use this tool