What must happen if a prescriber wishes to indicate that a brand name medication should be dispensed instead of the generic?

When a prescriber wishes to specify that a brand name medication should be dispensed instead of its generic counterpart, marking "DAW" (which stands for "Dispense As Written") on the prescription is essential. This notation clearly communicates to the pharmacist that the prescriber intends for the brand name medication to be provided to the patient, overriding the typical practice of dispensing generics.

Using "DAW" ensures that there is no confusion or assumption that a generic can be substituted. It serves as a directive that the brand-name drug is necessary for the patient's care, which may be important due to efficacy, patient tolerance, or specific insurance requirements. This practice helps ensure the patient receives the exact medication prescribed, aligning with the prescriber's intent, and protecting the patient's health and treatment plan.

The other choices do not provide the same level of clarity or authority. Simply writing a note in the patient's chart may not communicate the intent to the pharmacy. Calling the pharmacy could be an option but is not necessary if the prescription clearly indicates "DAW." Selecting the generic option would obviously contradict the intention to dispense the brand name. Thus, marking "DAW" on the prescription is the correct and most effective method to convey this instruction to the pharmacist