DAW codes

DAW 0

No product selection preference indicated on prescription. If generic is available, it is okay to substitute Some doctors may write "generic okay" or check "substitution permissible" on the prescription

DAW 9

Other. Don't use this value unless approved - it is reserved and currently not in use

DAW 6

Override. This is for very specific circumstances set forth by the insurance company and will rarely be used

DAW 7

Substitution NOT allowed because brand product is mandated by law. Several states have laws prohibiting the dispensing of a generic IF the brand-name is written on the face of the prescription. For example, Florida has a "negative formulary" with a list of medications that can't be substituted, even if a generic is available

DAW 1

Substitution NOT allowed by prescriber. Prescriber must indicate on the Rx to give the brand product States vary on specific wording required on the face of the Rx. Some use "Do Not Substitute," "Dispense as Written," "Brand Medically Necessary," or "Brand Only"

DAW 4

Substitution allowed by prescriber BUT the generic drug is not in stock. This is usually caused by the pharmacy not having the product in stock. It is caused by the buying habits of the pharmacy, NOT because the generic is unavailable on the market

DAW 2

Substitution allowed by prescriber BUT the patient requested the brand-name or specific product to be dispensed. The patient wants the brand-name or a specific product Some insurance providers may charge the patient a higher amount to get a brand product when a cheaper generic is available

DAW 3

Substitution allowed by prescriber BUT the pharmacist selected the brand-name or a specific product dispensed. This can occur when the prescriber writes for brand or generic AND the product is available from multiple sources. This could mean a higher co-pay or charge for the patient

DAW 5

Substitution allowed by provider BUT brand-name is dispensed as generic. This may be appropriate if there are multiple brands for a generic. For example, an insurance company may view the brand Levoxyl (levothyroxine) as a cheaper alternative to Synthroid (levothyroxine)

DAW 8

Substitution allowed by provider BUT generic drug is not available in marketplace. This occurs when a generic is not currently manufactured, is not distributed, or is temporarily unavailable. This may result in a higher co-pay or charge to the patient