Paper
Journal of Generic Medicines (2003) 1, 39–47; doi:10.1057/palgrave.jgm.4940016
The pursuit of distinction: The method of developing the non-proprietary name
R John Fidelino
379 West Broadway, Suite 302, New York, NY 10012, USA, Tel: +1 212 739 9669, Fax: +1 212 739 9682, Email: rjfidelino@earthlink.net
Revised 2 July 2003.
Abstract
The meaning and purpose behind a generic, or non-proprietary, name is elusive, even to those well entrenched in the medical profession and pharmaceutical industry. This paper intends to define generic names, explain their purpose and the global challenges they pose to manufacturers, provide some insight to their development — citing the US development process — and identify how the non-proprietary name can support marketing opportunities.
Keywords:
INN, WHO, USAN, generic names, non-proprietary names development process, trademark, brand name
