Dispense As Written

As discussed on the previous page, prescriptions have DAW codes. DAW is an acronym for “dispense as written”. Study the list below.

DAW 0: This will be the most common code that you see. A zero means that substitution is allowed or no specific product required. Example: A doctor writes a prescription for Synthroid 88mcg with DAW 0. The pharmacist can fill this prescription for Synthroid’s generic, levothyroxine.

DAW 1: This means dispense as written; no substitution allowed. The doctor may write out “dispense as written” or write 1 if there is pre-printed space for a DAW code. In this case, if the doctor writes Synthroid 88mcg, then the pharmacist must fill the prescription with only brand name, Synthroid.

DAW 2: Substitution allowed, but patient requested brand name.

DAW 3: Substitution allowed, but doctor requested brand name.

DAW 4: Generic not in stock. This is pharmacy-specific whether or not they carry the drug.

DAW 5: Brand is dispensed, but priced as a generic. Insurance claims submiited with code will be reimbursed at the generic price.

DAW 6: This is an override code and is used when the insurance company needs a prior authorization before agreeing to pay for a certain medication. This code can also be used when insurance will not pay for brand, but will also not accept DAW 9.

DAW 7: Substitution is not allowed because brand is mandated by law.

DAW 8: Generic not available in marketplace. This means manufacturer shortages. Usually if one manufacturer has to pull a drug from the market, the other manufacturers (if any) will also experience a shortage due to increased demand.

DAW 9: Substitution allowed, but the insurance plan requests brand. This is common with Medicaid.