RxTerms - a drug interface terminology derived from RxNorm.

A good interface terminology is an essential component of any Computerized Provider Order Entry system. RxTerms is a drug interface terminology derived from RxNorm. By reorganizing the drug information into two dimensions as prescribers do when writing prescriptions and by eliminating drug names that are less likely to be needed in a prescribing environment, RxTerms helps the user to efficiently enter complete prescription orders. Preliminary evaluation of RxTerms using a list of most commonly prescribed drugs showed that its coverage was very good (99% for both generic and branded drug names). There was significant efficiency gain compared to using the unprocessed RxNorm names. RxTerms fills the gap for a free, up-to-date drug interface terminology that is linked to RxNorm, the U.S. designated standard for clinical drugs.