What does the acronym NDC stand for in pharmacy?

The acronym NDC stands for National Drug Code. This code is a unique identifier assigned to each medication that is available for sale in the United States. The NDC serves several important functions in the healthcare system. It helps in identifying the drug, the manufacturer, and the specific formulation, which is critical for ensuring accurate dispensing and billing practices in pharmacies.

The structure of the NDC is typically a 10-digit number divided into three segments: the labeler code (which identifies the manufacturer), the product code (which identifies the specific product), and the package code (which identifies the packaging). This system aids in tracking medications and is essential for regulatory compliance, safety monitoring, and inventory management.

Understanding the significance of the National Drug Code is crucial for pharmacy technicians as it directly impacts their daily responsibilities, including medication preparation, administration, and insurance claims processing.