What Does DAW Mean in Medical Terms?

DAW stands for dispense as written. Instruction to supply the exact product prescribed.

dispense as written

Instruction to supply the exact product prescribed.

Where you will see DAW

You will most often see DAW in medication orders and prescriptions.

Example

A medication order might be written with “DAW” as shorthand for dispense as written.

Related abbreviations

Browse the full Medical Abbreviations guide — 5,715 entries, searchable A–Z and by specialty.

Educational reference only. This guide is for learning and quick reference. Abbreviations vary between hospitals, countries and specialties, and some are discouraged because they can be misread. Always write and interpret orders using your own institution’s approved abbreviation list, and check anything unclear with the prescriber or your local policy.