NDC Number: What's on a Bar Code?

What information can be found on a bar code?

On a bar code, you can find the NDC number. The other options: DEA, NABP, and NPI numbers, all pertain to healthcare providers or pharmacies, not products.

The NDC Number on a Bar Code

The correct answer to your question of what can be found on a bar code is the NDC number. An NDC, or National Drug Code, is a unique 10-digit or 11-digit, 3-segment number, and it is a universal product identifier for human drugs in the United States. This number helps identify the specific drug product, strength, and manufacturer.

Other Identifiers

The other numbers mentioned in the question - DEA number, NABP number, and NPI number - are all related to healthcare professionals or organizations, not products. A DEA number is assigned to healthcare providers by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, allowing them to write prescriptions for controlled substances. An NABP number is assigned by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy to identify pharmacies and their compliance with pharmacy laws and standards. An NPI number is a National Provider Identifier assigned to health care providers by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Conclusion

In summary, when looking at a bar code, you will find the NDC number, which serves as a crucial identifier for drug products. This number helps ensure that the right medication is dispensed to patients and allows for accurate tracking and monitoring of pharmaceuticals in the healthcare system.
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