What is the significance of the NDC number on a medication?

The NDC number, which stands for National Drug Code, plays a crucial role in the identification of medications. It is a unique number assigned to each drug product that precisely identifies its manufacturer, formulation, and package size. The NDC is structured in a standardized format consisting of three segments: the first segment represents the labeler code (the manufacturer), the second segment details the product code (the specific drug formulation and strength), and the third segment indicates the package code (the package size and type).

This identification system is fundamental in various aspects including prescription processing, drug dispensing, and inventory management in pharmacies. It ensures that healthcare providers can accurately identify and prescribe the correct medication, thereby minimizing the risk of medication errors.

In contrast, the other options describe features that are not represented by the NDC number. For instance, the expiration date of a drug is not part of the NDC. Tracking numbers for shipments pertain to logistics and not to drug identity, while a medication's cost is determined by various factors and is not reflected in the NDC system. Therefore, the NDC number's primary significance lies in its ability to convey essential information about the medication itself.