Which type of name identifies a medication that is not a brand name?

Prepare for the Certified Pharmacy Technician Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Receive hints and explanations for every question. Ace your test!

The generic name is the correct choice because it refers to the official, non-proprietary name of a medication. This name is typically assigned by regulatory agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the United States Adopted Names (USAN) Council. Unlike brand names, which are developed by pharmaceutical companies and can often be trademarked, generic names are standardized and used internationally across different markets.

Generic names provide a consistent identifier for a drug, regardless of the manufacturer, making it easier for healthcare professionals to communicate effectively about medications. For example, "ibuprofen" is a generic name, while "Advil" is a brand name for the same medication. The use of generic names helps reduce confusion and enhances patient safety while allowing for the use of multiple brands that contain the same active ingredient.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy