Computerized system for the identification of ingredients of proprietary compounds

A computerized system which links a code for a prescription drug product with codes for its active ingredients is described. Specialized computer programming techniques were used to insure a rapid system which would fit into the memory of small-to-medium sized computers. The programs are standardized, modular and independent of the codes used for the drugs and their ingredients. Classification of the ingredients in 32,304 prescriptions paid through the Tennessee Medicaid program required less than one minute of computer time on a Xerox Sigma 7 computer and used only 9% of the computer's available memory. The system has potential for use in settings where doctors frequently prescribe combination products.