Medicines can have up to four types of names: chemical, generic, brand, and colloquial. Chemical names refer to the full chemical composition, while generic names are assigned by organizations like the World Health Organization. Brand names are assigned by pharmaceutical companies, and colloquial names are given by the public. Proprietary names are used to market medicinal products and are protected by trademark laws. Regulatory guidelines outline criteria for choosing proprietary names, such as avoiding real words and implying false claims. Terms suggesting potency, speed, or specific properties should be avoided. Abbreviations like MR for modified-release are no longer acceptable, with more specific abbreviations recommended instead.
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When I use a word . . . The languages of medicines—trade names, proprietary names, or brand-names
