What Is an NDC Number?

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Understanding the National Drug Code (NDC) is essential for healthcare professionals, pharmacists, and patients. The NDC provides a unique identifier for medications, ensuring proper dispensing, inventory management, and safety. This article guides you through reading and interpreting NDC numbers on medication labels.

What Is an NDC Number?

The NDC is a 10-digit, three-segment number that uniquely identifies a drug product. It is assigned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and used in the United States for various healthcare purposes.

Structure of the NDC Number

The NDC typically consists of three segments:

  • Labeler Code: Identifies the manufacturer or distributor.
  • Product Code: Specifies the strength, dosage form, and formulation.
  • Package Code: Indicates package size and type.

Depending on the format, the segments may be separated by hyphens or spaces, such as 12345-6789-00 or 12345 6789 00.

How to Read NDC Numbers on Labels

When examining a medication label, locate the NDC number, which is usually found near the drug name or barcode. Break down the number into its segments to understand the specifics of the medication.

Example of an NDC Number

Consider the NDC 54868-1234-56. Here,:

  • 54868 is the labeler code.
  • 1234 is the product code.
  • 56 is the package code.

Interpreting the Segments

Knowing what each segment signifies helps in verifying the medication details:

  • Labeler Code: Look up the code in the FDA database to identify the manufacturer or distributor.
  • Product Code: Provides information about the drug’s strength and formulation.
  • Package Code: Indicates the size or type of packaging, such as tablets or bottles.

Using NDC Numbers Effectively

Accurate interpretation of NDC numbers ensures medication safety and proper inventory management. Always cross-reference NDCs with official databases or product labels to confirm details before dispensing or administering medications.

Resources for NDC Lookup

Several resources are available for verifying NDC numbers:

  • FDA’s NDC Database
  • Pharmacy software systems
  • Manufacturer websites
  • Healthcare provider portals

Regularly consulting these resources helps maintain accurate medication records and enhances patient safety.