Which factor is NOT typically considered when adding medications to a formulary?

When determining which medications to include in a formulary, several key factors are taken into account to ensure patient safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. Brand popularity is not typically one of these considerations.

The primary focus for adding medications usually revolves around their therapeutic effectiveness, potential side effects, and whether equivalent alternatives are available. Drug cost is an essential factor since formulary decisions can directly impact the overall healthcare budget and patient access to necessary medications. Side effects are also critically evaluated to minimize risks and ensure that prescriptions do not adversely affect patient health.

Additionally, if alternative medications are not available in the formulary, this might lead to decisions regarding the addition of a new drug to ensure that patients have access to effective treatments. Since brand popularity does not inherently correlate with safety, efficacy, or cost, it is not a relevant factor in formulary decision-making.