formulary

noun

for·​mu·​lary ˈfȯr-myə-ˌler-ē 

plural formularies

1

: a collection of prescribed forms (such as oaths or prayers)

2

: formula sense 1

3

: a book listing medicinal substances and formulas

formulary adjective

Examples of formulary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Only prescription drugs that are in the plan's formulary, or list of covered drugs, fall within the out-of-pocket cap. —Kristen Jordan Shamus, Detroit Free Press, 1 Nov. 2024

While some PBMs have made one or two adalimumab biosimilars — not all of them — slightly more accessible on certain formularies, this is far too little, far too late. —Juliana M. Reed, STAT, 1 Aug. 2024

To secure favorable placement for their drugs on insurance formularies, pharmaceutical companies offer PBMs significant rebates—particularly for higher-cost, brand-name medications, even when less expensive generics or biosimilars are available. —Robert Pearl, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

In 2024, five alternatives are listed in at least one plan formulary, with two plans listing four. —Diane Omdahl, Forbes, 17 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

formulary

noun

for·​mu·​lary ˈfȯr-myə-ˌler-ē 

plural formularies

1

: a book containing a list of medicinal substances and formulas see national formulary

2

: an official list of generic and brand name pharmaceutical drugs designated by a health insurance provider as approved for coverage under the provider's pharmacy plan benefits