In the NDC format, which segment indicates the product (capsules)?

In the NDC format, which segment indicates the product (capsules)?

• A. First segment (5 digits)
• B. Second segment (4 digits)
• C. Third segment (2 digits)
• D. All segments together

Answer: (B)

In the NDC, the digits are grouped to show who makes it, what the drug product is, and how it’s packaged. The middle segment identifies the exact drug product—its formulation and strength—so for capsules, this segment specifies the capsule product itself. In the common 5-4-2 format, that middle segment has four digits and stays the same for a given capsule product, regardless of packaging. The first segment is the labeler code, which names the manufacturer, and the third segment is the package code, which describes the package size or type. So the product (the capsule) is indicated by the middle segment.

In the NDC, the digits are grouped to show who makes it, what the drug product is, and how it’s packaged. The middle segment identifies the exact drug product—its formulation and strength—so for capsules, this segment specifies the capsule product itself. In the common 5-4-2 format, that middle segment has four digits and stays the same for a given capsule product, regardless of packaging. The first segment is the labeler code, which names the manufacturer, and the third segment is the package code, which describes the package size or type. So the product (the capsule) is indicated by the middle segment.