The selection of INNs is based on the Procedure for selection of international nonproprietary names for pharmaceutical substances. The text adopted is set out in World Health Assembly resolution WHA3.11 [Text adopted by the Executive Board of WHO in resolution EB15.R7 (Off. Rec. Wld Health Org., 1955, 60, 3) and amended by the Board in resolution EB43.R9 (Off. Rec. Wld Hlth Org., 1969, 173, 10).]. The application/request form for INN is attached as Annex 6 in its updated version.

In countries with national nomenclature commissions, applications for international nonproprietary names should be made through the national authorities (addresses - see Annex 7). In countries without a national nomenclature commission, requests for INNs may be forwarded directly to WHO. Applications for INNs should be addressed to:

Secretary of the INN Programme
Quality Assurance - INNs
Drug Management and Policies
World Health Organization
20, Avenue Appia
CH-1211 Geneva 27
Internet: koppkubels@who.ch
Fax: +41 22 791 07 46
Tel.: +41 22 791 36 36/36 60