What should a pharmacist do when a cheaper generic medication is available and the DAW is not indicated on the prescription?

When a cheaper generic medication is available and the Dispense As Written (DAW) notation is not indicated on the prescription, the appropriate action for the pharmacist is to dispense the cheapest generic option and inform the patient. This practice aligns with the principles of cost-effectiveness and patient-centered care.

By opting for the generic medication, the pharmacist ensures that the patient has access to a more affordable treatment option without compromising efficacy or safety. Moreover, informing the patient about the switch to a generic medication fosters transparency and helps engage the patient in their healthcare decisions.

In the context of this situation, dispensing the most expensive branded medication would not be justified without a DAW indication, as it does not serve the patient's best interest from a cost perspective. Contacting the physician for approval might cause unnecessary delays, particularly when a suitable alternative is readily available, and advising the patient to get the brand while not dispensing anything does not provide a solution or help the patient obtain their medication in a timely manner.