DCI
Published 8 November 2026, 22:44
denominação comum internacional — international non-proprietary name of the active substance
The name of the substance itself, which is the same all over the world: drotaverine, omeprazole, ibuprofen. A Portuguese doctor must write this name on the prescription, and may use the brand name only in two cases set out by law.
Where you come across it. Looking for a local equivalent of a medicine you are used to, talking to the doctor and the pharmacist.
At the pharmacy, ask by substance, not by the brand you are used to: brand names differ from country to country.