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search_drug_labels

Search FDA drug labels using the OpenFDA API to access indications, contraindications, warnings, and adverse reactions for any medication.

Instructions

Search FDA drug labels using OpenFDA API. Returns drug labeling information including indications, contraindications, warnings, and adverse reactions.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
skipNoNumber of records to skip (for pagination)
countNoField to count results by. Example: 'openfda.manufacturer_name.exact'
limitNoMaximum number of records to return (1-1000)
searchNoSearch query. Can search by drug name, active ingredient, manufacturer, etc. Example: 'aspirin', 'ibuprofen', 'openfda.brand_name:tylenol'
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It does not disclose rate limits, authentication requirements, pagination behavior, or whether the operation is read-only. The return format is only vaguely implied.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

A single, information-dense sentence that front-loads the primary purpose and expected return. No wasted words or redundant details.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

With no output schema and no annotations, the description should provide more behavioral and usage context. It does not explain how search syntax works, what the response structure looks like, or when to prefer sibling tools. The 4-parameter tool needs more guidance for correct invocation.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The input schema has 100% description coverage for all 4 parameters, including examples. The description adds no additional parameter semantics, so the baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description uses a specific verb ('Search FDA drug labels') and clearly states the resource and return content (indications, contraindications, warnings, adverse reactions). This distinguishes it from sibling tools that target specific sections.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description implies a general search use case but provides no explicit guidance on when to use this vs. sibling tools like get_drug_adverse_reactions or get_drug_warnings. No exclusions or alternative recommendations are given.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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