DAWN relies on a comprehensive drug vocabulary and classification system. The drug vocabulary is the language of DAWN drug data.

Because it is comprehensive, the DAWN drug vocabulary also can be a resource for others needing such a tool.

Download a copy of the DAWN Drug Reference Vocabulary (DRV):

• DAWN DRV Overview 162 Kb
• DRV in Excel Format 7.33 Mb last update 09/21/04
• DRV in Access XP Format 10.21 Mb last update 09/21/04
• DRV in Access 2000 Format 10.12 Mb last update 09/21/04
• DRV in Access 97 Format 6.48 Mb last update 09/21/04

The foundation of the DAWN drug vocabulary is the Multum Lexicon, a drug vocabulary and classification system developed and maintained by Multum Information Services, Inc., a private sector firm. The Multum Lexicon was selected because it met DAWN's needs for a robust and flexible system for coding and classifying thousands of drugs and other substances.

The result is a multi-purpose database with:

• Illicit drugs, prescription and over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and non-pharmaceutical inhalants.
• Individual drugs represented by generic names, brand (trade) names, street terms, chemical names, and ingredients.
• A common structure, regardless of drug type.
• Integrated descriptive categories, for classification and aggregation.