The National Drug Code (NDC) is the universal product identifier for human drugs sold in the United States. Understanding this 10-digit, three-segment number is key to accurately identifying medication for patient safety, pharmacy filling, and insurance billing. Beyond the NDC, other identifiers like imprint codes are essential for distinguishing between specific pills.
Understanding the National Drug Code (NDC)
The NDC is a three-segment number divided by hyphens, with each segment representing specific information about the drug. While the total number of digits is always 10, the configuration of the segments (the number of digits in each section) can vary, such as 5-3-2 or 4-4-2.
The Three Segments of an NDC
- Labeler Code (First Segment): This 4 or 5-digit number is assigned by the FDA and identifies the manufacturer, repackager, or distributor of the drug.
- Product Code (Second Segment): This 3 or 4-digit code is assigned by the labeler and specifies the drug's formulation, strength, and dosage form (e.g., tablet, capsule, liquid).
- Package Code (Third Segment): This 1 or 2-digit code is also assigned by the labeler and specifies the package size and type (e.g., a bottle of 100 tablets versus a bottle of 30).
Finding the Drug Code on Medication Packaging
One of the most reliable ways to find your drug code is by physically examining the product's packaging.
- Prescription Bottle Labels: The NDC is typically printed on the pharmacy label alongside other information like the drug name, dosage, and prescription number. It may be labeled explicitly as "NDC."
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication: For non-prescription products, look for the NDC on the outer box or container. It is often located near the product's barcode.
- Blister Packs and Vials: In multi-dose packaging like blister packs, the NDC may be printed on the foil backing or the outer box. For injectables, the NDC is printed on the vial itself.
Using Online Databases for a Drug Code Lookup
If you no longer have the packaging, you can use online resources to look up the NDC based on the drug's name and other details.
Reputable Online Resources
- FDA's National Drug Code Directory: The official and most authoritative source for NDC information. It is updated daily and includes both finished and unfinished drugs. The website allows you to search for drugs by name and identify their corresponding NDCs.
- DailyMed: Provided by the National Library of Medicine, DailyMed offers a comprehensive database of drug information, including NDCs. You can search for a drug and find its NDC in the product's Structured Product Labeling (SPL) file.
- Drugs.com and Other Health Websites: Many health information websites, like WebMD, have pill identifier tools that can return NDC information. They use an imprint code, shape, and color search to help narrow results.
Identifying an Unlabeled Pill (Using Imprint Codes)
If a pill is separated from its packaging, the NDC is not available. In this case, you can use the pill's unique imprint code, along with its physical characteristics, to identify it.
How to Use an Imprint Code
- Find the Imprint: Look for a series of numbers, letters, or symbols embossed or debossed on the pill.
- Use a Pill Identifier Tool: Enter the imprint code, shape, and color into an online pill identifier tool (like WebMD's).
- Cross-Reference the Results: The tool will provide a list of possible matches, complete with images and information. Compare the physical pill with the pictures to confirm the identification.
Understanding the 10-Digit vs. 11-Digit NDC
A common point of confusion arises with the 10-digit NDC found on packaging and the 11-digit format often required for insurance billing. This conversion is a standard practice for healthcare claims processing under the HIPAA regulations.
Converting the NDC for Billing
To convert a 10-digit NDC to the required 11-digit 5-4-2 format, a leading zero is added to the shortest segment.
- For a 4-4-2 format (e.g., 1234-5678-90): Add a leading zero to the first segment to make it 5 digits. The billing format becomes 01234-5678-90.
- For a 5-3-2 format (e.g., 12345-678-90): Add a leading zero to the second segment to make it 4 digits. The billing format becomes 12345-0678-90.
- For a 5-4-1 format (e.g., 12345-6789-0): Add a leading zero to the third segment to make it 2 digits. The billing format becomes 12345-6789-00.
NDC vs. Imprint Code: A Comparison
To highlight the key differences between these two identifiers, consider the following table:
| Feature | National Drug Code (NDC) | Imprint Code |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Universal product identifier for tracking and billing | Identifies individual pills for safety and verification |
| Format | 10 digits (three segments: labeler, product, package) | Alphanumeric (letters, numbers, symbols) |
| Location | Medication packaging, bottle, or vial | Directly on the surface of the pill |
| Scope | Identifies the drug product, strength, and package size | Identifies the specific pill, manufacturer, and strength |
| Reliance | Primary identifier for pharmacy and billing | Visual aid for pill identification, especially when loose |
| FDA Role | Assigns the labeler code and maintains directory | Requires imprint codes on most pills |
What to Do If You Can't Find Your Drug Code
If you have exhausted these methods or are still uncertain, the safest course of action is to consult a professional.
- Contact Your Pharmacist: A pharmacist can use their professional resources and access your medication records to provide the correct NDC and medication information.
- Consult Your Prescribing Doctor: Your doctor has your medical history and prescription records on file and can confirm the medication details.
Key Takeaways for Finding Your Drug Code
- Medication Packaging First: The simplest way to find an NDC is by checking the label of the medication bottle, box, or blister pack.
- Online Databases are Reliable: If packaging is unavailable, use official online directories like the FDA's NDC Directory or DailyMed to perform a lookup.
- Imprint Codes Identify Individual Pills: For loose pills, the imprint code is the most important identifier to use with a pill lookup tool.
- NDC Formatting Varies: Be aware of the 10-digit vs. 11-digit NDC conversion, especially when dealing with insurance claims.
- Consult a Professional for Uncertainty: When in doubt, a pharmacist or doctor is the most reliable resource for confirming medication information.
Conclusion Learning how do I find my drug code is a fundamental skill for managing your health. By understanding the NDC and other identifiers, you can ensure the accuracy of your prescriptions, streamline insurance billing, and, most importantly, confirm that you are taking the correct medication. Always use reliable sources like the original packaging or official databases and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.
What is the official website for finding a drug code?
The FDA's National Drug Code Directory is the official website to search for NDCs. You can find it on the FDA's website and it is updated daily with product listings.
Is an NDC the same as a UPC?
No, an NDC (National Drug Code) is not the same as a UPC (Universal Product Code). An NDC is a unique identifier specifically for drug products, whereas a UPC is used for any retail product and is a different numeric sequence.
What does the imprint code on a pill mean?
The imprint code is a series of letters, numbers, or symbols stamped on an individual tablet or capsule. It helps to identify the drug, its manufacturer, and its strength, especially if the pill has become separated from its original packaging.
Why is my NDC 10 digits on the package but 11 for billing?
Insurance companies and other payers often require an 11-digit NDC in a specific 5-4-2 format for claims processing, in accordance with HIPAA regulations. To convert a 10-digit NDC, a leading zero is added to the segment that is shorter than required.
Can I use a pill identifier tool for all pills?
Pill identifier tools are generally useful for FDA-approved prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. They cannot identify dietary supplements, herbal products, or illegal drugs.
What should I do if I can't read the drug code?
If you cannot read the NDC on the packaging or identify a loose pill, contact your pharmacist for assistance. They have access to your medication records and professional databases that can help confirm the drug's identity safely and accurately.
Do all drugs have an NDC?
In the United States, all listed human drug products are assigned an NDC. This includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs, but excludes certain products like vitamins and supplements that are not regulated as drugs.
