What DAW code is used when a generic drug is dispensed?

The DAW code that signifies a generic drug is dispensed is DAW 0. This code indicates that the prescribing physician has not specified a brand-name medication, allowing the pharmacist to substitute the generic equivalent without requiring prior approval. In this scenario, the pharmacist has the discretion to dispense a generic version of the medication, which often results in cost savings for the patient and promotes the use of therapeutically equivalent drugs.

When a different DAW code is used, it may indicate specific requirements or preferences regarding brand-name medications. For instance, DAW 1 is utilized when the prescriber specifies that a brand-name drug must be dispensed, while DAW 2 indicates that the prescription allows for a substitution but the patient requests the brand-name drug. DAW 3 signifies that a generic was available, but the prescriber has indicated that the brand-name is necessary. Each of these scenarios contrasts with DAW 0, emphasizing the significance of the generic substitution approval in pharmacy practice.