NREMT Paramedic Practice

What refers to the brand name given by the drug company that sells a medication?

1. Trade name

2. Generic name

3. Chemical name

4. Classification name

The correct answer is: Trade name

The term that refers to the brand name given by the drug company is called the trade name. This name is assigned by the pharmaceutical manufacturer and is often more memorable and easier to market than the medication's generic name, which is a non-proprietary name. The trade name can include clever branding and advertising elements designed to appeal to consumers and healthcare professionals alike. In contrast, the generic name is the standard name recognized by health authorities, which reflects the drug's active ingredient without branding. Additionally, the chemical name provides a scientific representation of the drug's molecular structure, while the classification name refers to the category under which the medication falls, based on its effects or use in treatment. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for healthcare professionals when communicating about medications.