If a prescription for Lasix 40mg does not indicate "Dispense as Written", how should it be entered?

When entering a prescription for Lasix 40mg that does not indicate "Dispense as Written," it is appropriate to use the generic name, which is Furosemide, along with a DAW (Dispense as Written) code of 0. This indicates that there is no special instruction from the prescriber to dispense the brand-name drug when a generic alternative is available and that the pharmacy is allowed to substitute the medication with the generic version when possible.

A DAW code of 0 signifies that a substitution is permitted and that the patient can receive the generic version of the medication, which is Furosemide in this case. This aligns with pharmacy practices aimed at reducing costs by utilizing generics when available, benefiting both the pharmacy and the patient.

It's essential to recognize that using a DAW code of 1 would imply the prescriber has instructed to dispense the brand-name drug only, meaning substitution is not allowed. Since the prescription does not indicate such an instruction, this would not be the correct approach. Likewise, dispensing Lasix without acknowledging the possibility of using Furosemide does not align with standard practices for generic substitution when permitted.