| PTHB Traffic Light classification defined below: |
| GREEN |
First line medicines |
Suitable for initiation by all prescribers including Primary Care within local or national recommendations. |
| BLUE |
Second line medicines |
| AMBER |
Medicines which should only be initiated or recommended by specialists but which may then be passed to primary care prescribers for prescribing. |
| AMBER (SHARED CARE) |
Medicines initiated by hospital specialist, but where continuing treatment by Primary Care Prescribers may be appropriate under a shared care agreement. |
| RED |
Medicines for hospital or specialist use only. |
The responsibility for initiation and monitoring treatment should rest with an appropriate hospital clinician and the drug should be supplied through the hospital throughout the duration of treatment. Primary Care Prescribers should not be asked to prescribe. |
| BLACK |
Not recommended for prescribing in Primary or Secondary Care except under exceptional circumstances. |
| PURPLE |
Multiple categories within the same drug group. |