What does the National Drug Code (NDC) identify?

The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique identifier used to categorize drugs in the United States. It specifically identifies the specific drug assigned by the FDA, consisting of three segments that indicate the labeler, product, and package. This coding system ensures that each medication can be accurately identified and ensures precise tracking and regulation, which are crucial for safety and efficiency within the pharmaceutical industry.

Other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of the NDC. While a drug may have a brand name, the NDC does not specifically identify it; rather, it relates to the drug's identity and formulation. Similarly, the pharmacy's registration number is a separate identifier not associated with the NDC. Lastly, the scheduled classification of a drug pertains to the Drug Enforcement Administration's categorization of controlled substances, which is distinct and not indicated by the NDC. Thus, the NDC's primary function is to specify the drug as designated by the FDA.