Which term is the official non-proprietary name of a drug?

• A. Chemical name
• B. Generic name
• C. Trade name
• D. Official name

Answer: (B)

In pharmacology, the official non-proprietary name of a drug is the generic name—the standardized, universally accepted name for the active substance used in prescribing and labeling. This name is chosen to be unique and nonproprietary so healthcare providers can communicate clearly across manufacturers and regions. The chemical name describes the exact molecular structure and is often unwieldy for everyday use, while the trade or brand name is the marketed label assigned by a company and can vary by country. For example, the generic name acetaminophen is the official non-proprietary name; Tylenol is a brand name, and the chemical name is N-acetyl-p-aminophenol.