Understanding International Nonproprietary Names (INNs):

Your Global Guide to Medication

Have you ever been abroad and couldn’t find your usual medication because it had a different name? This is where International Nonproprietary Names (INNs) become your best friend. Let me explain this concept in a simple, friendly way.

What is an INN?

An International Nonproprietary Name is the official, globally recognized name for a medicine’s active substance. Unlike brand names that vary by country and manufacturer, INNs remain consistent worldwide. For example:

• Ibuprofen is the INN, while Nurofen and Advil are brand names;
• Paracetamol (acetaminophen in the US) is the INN, while Panadol and Tylenol are brand names.

These universal names are assigned by the World Health Organization (WHO) and help avoid confusion across borders and languages.

Why INNs Matter in Real Life

Knowing the INN of your medications can be incredibly helpful in several situations:

• When traveling and needing to find your medicine abroad;
• When looking for cheaper generic alternatives;
• When comparing medications from different countries;
• When checking for duplicate ingredients to avoid accidental overdosing;
• When discussing your medication needs with doctors in foreign countries.

How to Use Pill in Trip to Find INNs

Pill in Trip is a free online tool designed for travelers and expats who need to identify medications by their international names. Here’s how to use it:

1. Go to pillintrip.com;

2. Enter the brand name you know in the search bar (e.g., “Panadol” or “Voltaren”);

3. Check the search results — you’ll see a detailed profile of the drug, including:

● The INN (international nonproprietary name);

● Brand equivalents in different countries;

● Forms and dosages.

4. Use the language selector to browse localized versions for your current location;

5. Bookmark or screenshot the INN info to show at local pharmacies.

It’s fast, reliable, and made exactly for people like you.

How to Find an INN

If you need to identify an INN, here are some simple steps:

1. Check the medication packaging — Look for the “active ingredient” section;
2. Use trusted online resources — WHO’s INN database, Drugs.com, or MedlinePlus;
3. Search using the brand name — Try “[“Brand name”] active ingredient” in Google;
4. Use medical apps — Some apps can scan barcodes to reveal drug compositions;
5. Ask a pharmacist — They’re trained to know what’s in any medication.

How to Recognize a True INN

INNs have specific characteristics:

• Written in lowercase (unless at the start of a sentence);
• No trademark symbols (™ or ®);
• Consistent across all countries;
• Listed in official WHO databases.

Other Naming Systems

While INNs are international, some countries have their own naming conventions:

• British Approved Name (BAN) in the UK;
• United States Adopted Name (USAN) in the US;
• Australian Approved Name (AAN) in Australia.

These often align with INNs but may have slight differences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When working with INNs, watch out for these pitfalls:

• Confusing brand names with INNs;
• Assuming brands are the same globally;
• Using unofficial sources for information;
• Overlooking regional spelling differences;
• Assuming all generic versions are identical.

Why This Knowledge Matters

Understanding INNs gives you:

• Clarity when navigating medications worldwide;
• Safety by preventing accidental overdosing;
• Financial benefits through finding cheaper alternatives;
• Better communication with healthcare providers globally.

By focusing on INNs rather than brand names, you gain control over your health choices no matter where you are in the world. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay healthy!

Want a full step-by-step guide to finding INNs, spotting common mistakes, and understanding naming differences like USAN or BAN?

👉 Read the full article on Pill in Trip

Stay safe, stay informed, and travel smart.