A Pocket Formulary and Physician’s Manual by Thomas S. Powell, published in 1855, serves as a comprehensive guide for medical practitioners, focusing on the art of combining and prescribing medicines effectively. This manual compiles a wealth of knowledge from various medical traditions, providing valuable recipes, tables, and guidance tailored to the needs of physicians across the United States. Its primary aim is to enhance the practitioner’s ability to prescribe medications judiciously, ensuring optimal patient care.​

The book is meticulously organized to facilitate easy reference, with contents arranged alphabetically by disease. This structure allows physicians to quickly access relevant information, including over 2500 prescriptions derived from the practices of experienced American and foreign physicians. Additionally, the manual includes a special list of new drugs, detailing their dosages, solubilities, and therapeutic applications. Such comprehensive coverage ensures that practitioners are well-equipped with the latest advancements in pharmacology.​

Beyond prescriptions, the manual offers a wealth of supplementary information crucial for medical practice. It features tables for suppositories, hypodermic medications, inhalation drugs, poisons with their antidotes, and posological data. Furthermore, it provides insights into external antipyretics, disinfectants, medical thermometry, urinary tests, and other essential topics. This extensive compilation underscores the manual’s role as an indispensable resource for physicians seeking to enhance their clinical acumen.​

A Pocket Formulary and Physician’s Manual embodies the integration of traditional medical wisdom with emerging scientific knowledge of the 19th century. Its emphasis on practical application, coupled with a commitment to comprehensive coverage, reflects a forward-thinking approach to medical practice. By valuing the accumulated experience of past practitioners while embracing new discoveries, the manual stands as a testament to the enduring importance of thoughtful, informed medical care.