How can a physician prohibit the dispensing of a generic medication?

A physician can prohibit the dispensing of a generic medication through various methods, each of which indicates a clear intention to ensure that a specific brand name product is provided to the patient instead of its generic counterpart.

Having a verbal statement on the phone serves as an immediate communication channel where the physician can directly express their preference for a specific medication, including the stipulation to avoid generics. This method may not always be as reliable as written methods but still conveys the physician's instructions effectively.

Utilizing a prescription form that includes only one signature line is another method that reinforces the physician's intent. This format typically signifies that the physician only intends to authorize a specific medication without the option for generic substitutions. This ensures clarity and helps prevent any confusion on the part of the pharmacy.

Writing "Dispense as Written" (often abbreviated as DAW) on the prescription provides a straightforward and unequivocal directive to the pharmacist to provide the exact brand name drug prescribed. This phrase carries significant weight in pharmacy practice and is widely recognized as a clear instruction to avoid substituting with a generic.

Collectively, all these methods effectively communicate the physician's prohibitions against dispensing a generic medication. Each option contributes to ensuring that the medication provided aligns with the physician's intent and the patient's