What is MSD Manual?
The MSD Manual began in 1899 as a small reference book for physicians and pharmacists, and is now a free medical reference online. It is published by Merck and Co., Inc., of Rahway, New Jersey, a company known as MSD outside the US and Canada, and the Consumer Version explains conditions in everyday language.
A separate Professional Version covers the same ground for clinicians and students. The consumer site has sections on health topics, symptoms, emergencies, healthy living and drugs, with articles credited to named doctors. It is a reference for general information, not a substitute for seeing a doctor.
Main Features
- Consumer and Professional versions
- Health topics organised by body system and condition
- Symptoms section explaining possible causes
- First aid and emergencies pages
- Drug information and normal lab values
- Videos, quick facts and short knowledge quizzes
- Articles credited to named medical authors
How to Get Started with MSD Manual
- Open msdmanuals.com/home in your browser.
- Search for a condition, symptom or drug.
- Or browse Health Topics or Symptoms from the menu.
- Switch to the Professional Version if you want clinical detail.
- Discuss anything about your own health with a doctor.
MSD Manual Pricing
The manuals are free to read in digital form, with no paid plan or sign-up on the site. The publisher says it makes them available for free to professionals and patients.
Who Should Use It?
- Patients and families reading about a condition
- Medical, nursing and pharmacy students
- Clinicians wanting a quick reference
- Readers checking normal lab values or first aid steps
MSD Manual Alternatives
- Anatomy Atelier is a learning site for human anatomy.
- Ada AI is an AI symptom checker.
- Ubie is an AI symptom checker that suggests possible causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MSD Manual free?
Yes. The publisher makes the manuals available for free online to both patients and professionals, with no paid plan.
What is the difference between the MSD Manual and the Merck Manual?
They come from the same publisher. Merck and Co., Inc. is known as MSD outside the US and Canada, which is where the MSD name is used.
Is there a version for non-doctors?
Yes. The Consumer Version uses everyday language, and the Professional Version is written for clinicians and students.
Can I use it to diagnose myself?
It is a general reference and does not give personal advice. See a doctor about your own symptoms, and call emergency services in an emergency.