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Frequently Asked Questions


Which Active Ingredient monographs appear in the EMGuidance medicines section?

All schedule 1-6 medicines registered by the South African Medicines Control Council (MCC), as well as commonly used schedule 0 and unscheduled medicines.

What information is present on the Active Ingredient medicine 'tile'?

The medicine tile contains the active ingredient(s), the formulations covered within that monograph, the therapeutic class(es), the pharmacologic classification, the schedule as well as the availability on the national South African Essential Medicines List (EML).

What is the difference between an EMGuidance Active Ingredient monograph and a Product-Specific monograph?
The active ingredient monographs provide concept-level prescription guidance for the active ingredient(s). See above for detailed editorial process.

Which information is included in 'Trade Names and Preps'?

All the available brands in South Africa in alphabetical order. This information is compiled and regularly updated from the national government's Medicines Price Registry, available at http://www.mpr.gov.za.

Which information is available under 'Indications'?

Registered South African indications approved by the Medicines Control Council (MCC). These indications are based on manufacturer information for both originator and generic products. For product specific registered indications, please refer to product specific manufacturer information. The indications for antimicrobial monographs are based on organism sensitivity.

What is included in 'Adult and Paediatric Dosages'?

Formulations covered in the monograph, as well as dosing information listed by indication. The dosage information is based on local and international manufacturer information and trusted medicine databases and resources. Any conflicts between these sources are resolved by the EMGuidance editorial team. The team considers the available evidence and local clinical context. Dosages are provided for an extensive range of indications . Registered South African indications are clearly marked in the Indications section.

What is included in 'Special Populations'?

  • Pregnancy
The FDA classification of the medicine is provided.

  • Breast Feeding
Guidance on the use of the medicine is derived from the most recent international manufacturer information. The prescription guidance is presented in six distinct categories.

  • Compatible
Clearly compatible. No significant reason to withhold medicine.

  • Contraindicated
Clearly incompatible. Under no circumstances should this medicine be used in woman who are breastfeeding.

  • Caution
Some evidence suggest that the medicine may be responsible for adverse effects in the fetus. Benefit vs. risk to be considered before prescribing the medicine. Expert consultation and/or additional resources should be consulted.

  • Caution; not recommended
The medicine is likely to be responsible for adverse effects in the fetus. There may be certain circumstances in which a benefit-risk assessment permit the prescription of the medicine. Expert consultation and additional resources required.

  • Not indicated for use in adults
Use with caution as sources do not provide any information on this population group.

  • Caution; no information available
Use with caution and monitor closely as no studies have been conducted on this population or use with caution as our sources do not provide any breastfeeding data or recommendations.

  • Renal Impairment & Hepatic Impairment
Guidance on the use of the medicine is derived from the most recent international manufacturer information. The prescription guidance is presented in five distinct categories.

  • Contraindicated
Do not use under any circumstances.

  • Caution; dose adjustment recommended
Use with appropriate dosage adjustment. Consult experts and/or other resources for specific adjustment.

  • Caution; no dose adjustment recommended
Monitor closely when prescribing. No specific dosage adjustment is indicated.

  • No dose adjustment recommended
Manufacturers labeling does not provide any cautions or dose adjustments.

  • Caution; no information available
Use with caution and monitor closely as no studies have been conducted on this population.

  • Elderly
Guidance on the use of the medicine is derived from the most recent international manufacturer information. The prescription guidance is presented in six distinct categories.

  • Contraindicated
Do not use under any circumstances.

  • Caution; dose adjustment recommended
Use with appropriate dosage adjustment. Consult experts and/or other resources for specific adjustment.

  • Caution; no dose adjustment recommended
Monitor closely when prescribing. No specific dosage adjustment is indicated.

  • No dose adjustment recommended
Manufacturers labeling does not provide any cautions or dose adjustments.

  • Caution; no information available
Use with caution and monitor closely as no studies have been conducted on this population.

  • Not indicated for use in geriatric patients

Use with caution as sources do not provide any information on this population group.

What is included in Contraindications & Cautions?

A comprehensive list of contraindications and cautions is provided. This list is based on the most recent international manufacturer information.

What is included in Adverse Reactions?

A comprehensive list of adverse reactions is provided. This list is based on the most recent international manufacturer information.

What is included in Medicine Interactions?

A comprehensive list of important class and specific medicine interactions is listed. The nature and management steps for each interaction are not discussed. This list is based on most recent international manufacturer information.

What is included in Monitoring?

Monitoring guidance is based on international manufacturer information and trusted medicine databases.

What is included in Additional Prescribing Points?

Clinical and pharmacological specialists provide important practical tips in the use of the medicine. This section may include additional administration directions and EML information where necessary.

What is included in Cost Information?

The costing section provides a link to a cost-comparison tool. The tool is provided by code4SA. The tool allows for an overall view of all the recommended costs for all the products linked to the active ingredient. The tool is based in the National Government Medicines Price Registry available at http://www.mpr.gov.za

What if a medicine I am looking for is not in EMGuidance?

Please contact us at support@emguidance.com