When processing a prescription, what does "DAW" stand for?

The term "DAW" stands for "Dispense As Written." In the context of processing prescriptions, it indicates that the pharmacist should dispense the specific medication as prescribed by the physician without substitutions. This directive is critical in ensuring that the patient receives the exact medication intended by their healthcare provider, particularly when the prescribed medication may have specific therapeutic effects or risks associated with switching to a generic or alternative formulation.

By indicating "DAW," it communicates to the pharmacist that they should not substitute a different brand or generic version of the medication, which is important for patient safety and maintaining the effectiveness of treatment. This is particularly relevant in cases where bioequivalence may not be guaranteed, or if the patient has reported a lack of effectiveness or adverse reactions to substituted versions in the past.

In the context of the other options, "Do Not Alter Written," "Drug Administration Warning," and "Delivery Approval Wait" do not accurately reflect the standard terminology or meaning associated with prescription processing regarding substitution policies. This reinforces the importance of using correct terminology in pharmacy practice to avoid confusion and ensure adherence to prescriptions.