What does "DAW 5" indicate in relation to prescription medication?

"DAW 5" indicates that the pharmacy is using a branded generic drug. This code is part of the Drug Authorization Waiver (DAW) codes that pharmacies use to communicate with insurance companies and to indicate how to handle a prescription regarding brand name versus generic drug substitutions.

When "DAW 5" is indicated, it means that although the prescription is written without restrictions, the patient or prescriber has opted for a specific brand but is willing to accept a generic equivalent as long as it is a branded generic version. This allows for some flexibility in filling the prescription while still respecting the patient's desire for a specific formulation.

Understanding this code is important for pharmacy technicians, as it impacts how prescriptions are processed and how insurance claims are presented. The choice reflects the balance between honoring patient preferences and the regulatory framework within which pharmacists operate.