Course Details

Introduction to Drug Nomenclature and INN

FA0721

Course
Introduction to Drug Nomenclature and INN
Code
FA0721
Academic Year
2025/2026
Curriculum Year
2023/2024
Degree Programme
PHARMACEUTICAL CHEMISTRY AND TECHNOLOGY
Curriculum
000 - Generico
Course coordinator
Lecturers
Credits
1
Lecture Hours
8
Scientific Disciplinary Sector (SSD)
CHIM/08 - Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Course Type
Single-subject learning activity
Course Delivery
OPZ - Opzionale
Year
3
Teaching period
Primo Semestre
Campus
NOVARA
Teaching language
Italian
Course Contents
The course provides a comprehensive overview of the international nomenclature system for pharmaceutical substances, known as International Nonproprietary Names (INN), developed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Reference Texts
The reference materials for the course are available on the official website of the World Health Organization (WHO). Participants can access documents related to the INN Programme, nomenclature guidelines, and other relevant resources. All materials are freely accessible and serve as the primary source for exploring the topics covered in the course. Link to WHO website: https://www.who.int/teams/health-product-and-policy-standards/inn
Learning Outcomes
The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of International Nonproprietary Names (INN) for pharmaceutical substances. Through a blend of theoretical and practical approaches, the course seeks to: • Introduce the significance of scientific nomenclature in the pharmaceutical context. • Explain the principles and rules that govern the creation of INNs. • Analyze the scientific and linguistic evaluation process for drug naming. • Explore practical applications of INNs in the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare systems, and health professionals' education. The course aspires to develop technical and conceptual skills necessary to interpret, design, and correctly apply INNs, while fostering global awareness of the importance of standardization in pharmaceutical nomenclature.
Prerequisites
None
Teaching Methods
The course is conducted entirely online via the Moodle platform. It consists of a series of video lectures covering the various thematic modules of the program. Supporting materials, including slides and additional resources, are provided to deepen the topics covered and enhance learning.
Additional Information
For further information, please refer to the course page on D.I.R. at: https://www.dir.uniupo.it/course/view.php?id=22352 Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.
Assessment Methods
Assessment will be conducted through practical exercises and self-assessment quizzes embedded within the course modules. Each quiz is designed to test the understanding of key concepts and the application of rules and principles of INN nomenclature. No final exam is required. Eligibility is determined by successfully completing the self-assessment quizzes for each module.
Detailed Syllabus
The course is organized into five modules, each addressing a specific aspect of the INN (International Nonproprietary Names) system and its impact on the pharmaceutical industry, regulation, and healthcare practices. Introduction to the INN Programme Quality of pharmaceutical substances Establishing the INN Programme Objectives of the INN Programme INN Programme Engagement Scientific Principles of Drug Nomenclature Nomenclature in science The drug discovery process The scientific basis of drug nomenclature Evaluation of evidence for support General Rules and Principles of INN Nomenclature The chemical approach to INN nomenclature The stem approach to INN nomenclature General principles for devising INN Modified INN and stereoisomeric drugs Common stems for pharmaceutical substances Development of INN for biological substances and related naming policies INN Application Process and Protection of INN INN business process Business process model From Proposed INN (pINN) to Recommended INN (rINN) Protection of INN Use of INN in the Pharmaceutical Industry, Healthcare Systems, and Education Practical applications of INN across various fields
Expected Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be able to: Understand the importance of scientific nomenclature and the role of International Nonproprietary Names (INN) in pharmaceutical and healthcare contexts. Gain knowledge of the scientific and linguistic foundations used for the definition of INN and apply general principles in naming construction. Identify and utilize criteria for naming chemical drugs, biological substances, and advanced therapies. Analyze the development, application, and protection process of INN within the World Health Organization programme. Assess the practical impact of INN in areas such as pharmaceutical regulation, marketing, health professionals' education, and clinical practice.
Last update:09-09-2026 00:14:31