CVS Pharmacy Technician Certification Practice Test

What does the middle set of digits in an NDC number represent?

1. Manufacturer

2. Product name/strength

3. Package size

4. Expiration date

The correct answer is: Product name/strength

The middle set of digits in a National Drug Code (NDC) number specifically identifies the product name and its strength. The NDC is formatted as a series of digits divided into three segments: the first segment indicates the labeler or manufacturer, the middle segment designates the specific product, which encompasses both the medication name and the strength of that product, and the final segment denotes the package size. This structured coding system facilitates the identification of drugs and ensures that healthcare providers can accurately prescribe and dispense medications. Each product will have its unique identifier in this segment, allowing for differentiation between various formulations, dosages, and strengths even if they may belong to the same manufacturer. The other options, while relevant to understanding the entirety of the NDC structure, do not represent the middle segment accurately. For instance, the first digits correspond to the manufacturer, the last digits relate to the package size, and expiration dates are not part of the NDC system.