Use of stems in the selection of International Nonproprietary Names (INN) for pharmaceutical substances, 2024
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World Health Organization
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iii, 234 p.
This publication provides comprehensive guidance on the use of stems in the selection of International Nonproprietary Names (INN) for pharmaceutical substances. Prepared by the WHO INN Programme, it is intended to support applicants proposing names for new pharmaceutical substances, as well as regulatory authorities, pharmaceutical manufacturers, patent and trademark offices, researchers and other stakeholders involved in drug nomenclature. The document explains the objectives of the INN Programme, the procedures and criteria used for selecting nonproprietary names, and the principles governing the assignment and use of stems that identify pharmacologically related groups of substances. The publication presents an updated compilation of INN stems and their definitions, together with a classification system linking stems to pharmacological and chemical categories. It includes alphabetical listings of stems, examples of corresponding INN, and guidance on interpreting stem usage across previously published proposed and recommended names. Annexes reproduce the official procedures and principles for INN selection, describe nomenclature schemes for monoclonal antibodies and gene therapy substances, provide references to published INN lists, and outline the role and importance of INN in promoting the safe identification, prescribing, regulation and international exchange of information on medicines.
This publication provides comprehensive guidance on the use of stems in the selection of International Nonproprietary Names (INN) for pharmaceutical substances. Prepared by the WHO INN Programme, it is intended to support applicants proposing names for new pharmaceutical substances, as well as regulatory authorities, pharmaceutical manufacturers, patent and trademark offices, researchers and other stakeholders involved in drug nomenclature. The document explains the objectives of the INN Programme, the procedures and criteria used for selecting nonproprietary names, and the principles governing the assignment and use of stems that identify pharmacologically related groups of substances. The publication presents an updated compilation of INN stems and their definitions, together with a classification system linking stems to pharmacological and chemical categories. It includes alphabetical listings of stems, examples of corresponding INN, and guidance on interpreting stem usage across previously published proposed and recommended names. Annexes reproduce the official procedures and principles for INN selection, describe nomenclature schemes for monoclonal antibodies and gene therapy substances, provide references to published INN lists, and outline the role and importance of INN in promoting the safe identification, prescribing, regulation and international exchange of information on medicines.