Book Review: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook Sixth Edition

Abstract

This 6th edition of this popular reference text provides in alphabetic generic name, order one-to-two page systematic monographs of veterinary legend, and nonveterinary pharmaceuticals. The revised two-color layout is easy to read and access key information. The current edition adds 70 new drug monographs, and overdose information on 50 drugs most associated with animal overdoses from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. The appendix provides reviews of ophthalmic, topical, and otic products. Therapeutic diets for dogs and cats are also summarized. The last 50 pages provide oncology protocols, conversion tables, hematological normal values and reference ranges, and various phone numbers and websites. The handbook has two print editions (Desk Size: 8.5 3 11 inches; Pocket Edition: 5 3 8 inches), and two electronic editions (CD and a mobile/PDA version). Errata and updates are afforded via the website (http://www. vetdruginfo.com/errata5th.html). Each monograph offers uses/indications/pharmacologi-cal actions, pharmacokinetics, contraindications/precau-tions/warnings, adverse effects, reproductive/nursing safety, overdose/acute toxicity, drug interactions, doses (usually stratified by species), monitoring, client information, chemistry/synonyms, storage/stability, dose form/regulato-ry status, which includes whether the drug has a veterinary label, and its trade name and manufacture as a human labeled product. The relevancy of printed summary monographs can be questioned, as access to drug information using quick web searches has increased access at point of care and locations were veterinary professional and technicians review and plan. However the myriad of formats, limited veterinary perspective and lack of peer review often limits the utility of these electronic searches. Donald Plumb and the 8 contributors provide substantial value to the practitioner, researcher, technician, and student by offing the standardized format, Vet Pathol 45:952-954 (2008) 952