How INNs are created Making drug names safer by contributing to INN selection

摘要

The international nonproprietary names (INNs) devised for each drug, under the aegis of the World Health Organization (WHO), enable pharmaceutical substances to be identified in the same way around the world. INNs often make drugs' names meaningful and therefore easier to understand and remember, mainly through the use of informative common stems. The task of devising an INN is therefore crucial in enabling health professionals and patients to understand what the drug does and to use it safely. How are INNs devised? What aims, procedures, external influences, limitations and difficulties are at play? This "guided tour" of INN creation deals with the public consultations organised by the WHO on proposed INNs, in which Prescrire is an active participant.