The Handbook of Pharmacology and Physiology in Anesthetic Practice is a companion to Dr. Stoelting's Pharmacology and Physiology in Anesthetic Practice (most recent edition 1991, henceforth referred to as "the textbook"). The chapter titles follow the same format, with close content parallels.
The Handbook is a real gem; it is well written in outline format. Each chapter begins with an overview statement taken directly from the textbook. Complex topics are discussed clearly and succinctly, for example: context-sensitive half-life. Diagrams and tables contain up-to-date information (such as data about remifentanil, desflurane, sevoflurane, ropivacaine, and rocuronium) as well as the classics (example: ventricular arrhythmias with increased doses of submucosal epinephrine as inhaled anesthetic dose is increased). Full references for the diagrams in the Handbook are found in the textbook. However, some information is different than I remember being taught: is nitrous really a "weak trigger" of malignant hyperthermia, and does etomidate really activate a seizure focus? I will defer to Dr. Stoelting's superior background and continue reading on these subjects.
How much information do you need to safely practice? For example, details about receptor effects of narcotics may not be important practically. Which is not to say that the Handbook is a complete substitute for the larger volume. For example, the handbook omits but the textbook discusses that epidural doses are ten times subarachnoid doses of narcotics, certainly a key piece of information, and the diagrams and discussion about metabolism and elimination and the effects of renal failure is more complete in the textbook.
Who would find the Handbook useful? Beginning practitioners would find it to be a manageable length and easy to fit in a uniform pocket; it would be equally useful to those studying for a board exam to identify areas that were really unfamiliar, or to longtime practioners looking for a quick personal review course. My recommendation is to buy the Handbook before its popularity drives up the price (currently $39.00 US; $42 elsewhere).