When is DAW 5 used in pharmacy?

DAW 5 is utilized in situations where the brand name medication is specifically required for prior authorization purposes. This situation occurs when an insurance plan necessitates documentation or approval before they will cover the prescribed medication. The requirement for a brand name in this context might arise due to specific therapeutic reasons, formulary restrictions, or the need for a particular formulation not available in generics. When DAW 5 is indicated, it signals to the pharmacy and insurance that the use of a brand name product is essential for the patient's treatment, thereby ensuring that the necessary authorization is obtained to facilitate insurance coverage. This is particularly important in managed care settings where prior authorization could directly impact access to medication for the patient.