CVS Pharmacy Technician Certification Practice Test

What does the DAW 1 code indicate when dispensing medication?

1. Generic equivalent can be used

2. Brand medication must be dispensed

3. No specific instructions are provided

4. Medication is not available

The correct answer is: Brand medication must be dispensed

The DAW 1 code signifies that the brand medication must be dispensed instead of a generic equivalent, reflecting a preference that the brand name product be provided to the patient. This code is often used when the prescriber explicitly notes on the prescription that the brand name is necessary for therapeutic reasons, or when the patient requests the brand name due to perceived efficacy or tolerability. Consequently, the pharmacy is required to supply the brand formulation instead of a generic alternative, reinforcing the importance of adhering to the specific wishes of the prescriber or the patient regarding the medication being dispensed.