Brazilian Nonproprietary Name

Brazilian Nonproprietary Name (BNN) is a system of nomenclature for pharmaceutical drugs used in Brazil. It is designed to provide a standardized, clear, and precise system for the identification of medication. The BNN is similar to the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) system used globally, but it has specific adaptations to meet the needs of the Brazilian healthcare system.

Overview

The BNN system is managed by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), which is responsible for the regulation and control of pharmaceuticals in Brazil. The agency assigns a unique BNN to each active ingredient of a drug. This name is independent of the brand name under which the drug is sold, allowing for clear communication and precise identification of drugs across different healthcare providers and patients.

Purpose

The main purpose of the BNN system is to provide a unique, standardized name for each pharmaceutical substance, regardless of the brand under which it is sold. This helps to avoid confusion and errors in medication use, as the same substance can be sold under different brand names. The BNN system also facilitates the exchange of information among healthcare professionals and patients, as well as the comparison of drugs from different manufacturers.

Naming Process

The process of assigning a BNN begins with a proposal from the manufacturer or importer of the drug. The proposal is then reviewed by ANVISA, which considers factors such as the drug's chemical structure, mechanism of action, and therapeutic use. If approved, the proposed name becomes the official BNN for that substance.

Comparison with Other Systems

While the BNN system is similar to the INN system, there are some differences. For example, the BNN system includes specific adaptations to meet the needs of the Brazilian healthcare system, such as the inclusion of certain indigenous plants used in traditional medicine. Additionally, while the INN system is managed by the World Health Organization, the BNN system is managed by ANVISA.

See Also

• International Nonproprietary Name
• United States Adopted Name
• British Approved Name
• Japanese Accepted Name

References

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