Guidelines on the Use of International Nonproprietary Names (INNs) for Pharmaceutical Substances
(1997; 41 pages)

Table of Contents

	1. General introduction
		1.1 General information on the INN system
		1.2 Use of INNs
	2. Elements in the INN system
		2.1 Proposed INNs
		2.2 Recommended INNs
		2.3 Names for radicals and groups
		2.4 Modified INNs (INNMs)
		2.5 Cumulative list of INNs
	3. Principles for selection of INNs
		3.1 General rules
		3.2 Use of stems
		3.3 Stereoisomers
		3.4 Radioactive compounds
		3.5 Specific groups of biological compounds
	4. Protection of INNs
	5. How to apply for an INN
		5.1 Procedure for selection of INNs
		5.2 INN request form
	6. References for supporting material
	Annex 1: Background information on the INN programme
	Annex 2: General principles for guidance in devising international nonproprietary names for pharmaceutical substances
	Annex 3: List of common stems used in the selection of INNs
	Annex 4: Specific groups of biological compounds
	Annex 5: WHA46.19 - Nonproprietary names for pharmaceutical substances
	Annex 6: Procedure for the selection of international nonproprietary names for pharmaceutical substances
	Annex 7: Applications for INNs through national authorities (addresses)
	Annex 8: INN request form

Guidelines on the Use of International Nonproprietary Names (INNs) for Pharmaceutical Substances

Programme on International Nonproprietary Names (INN)
Division of Drug Management & Policies

World Health Organization
Geneva

WHO/ PHARM S/NOM 1570
Distr.: GENERAL
ENGLISH ONLY

This document is not a formal publication of the World Health Organization (WHO), and all rights are reserved by the Organization. The document may, however be freely reviewed, abstracted, reproduced or translated, in part or in whole, but not for sale or for use in conjunction with commercial purposes.

Information on the INN Programme and the INN request form are available on INTERNET:
http://www.who.ch/programmes/dmp/innmain.htm