An obsolete NDC (National Drug Code) means that a specific drug product is no longer available in the marketplace. When an NDC is marked as obsolete, it indicates that the associated medication has ceased to be marketed, produced, or distributed.
Understanding National Drug Codes (NDCs)
The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique, 10-digit, 3-segment number that identifies human drug products in the United States. It's a universal product identifier for drugs, similar to a barcode. Each segment provides specific information:
- First Segment (Labeler Code): Identifies the manufacturer, repackager, or distributor.
- Second Segment (Product Code): Identifies the specific strength, dosage form, and formulation of a drug.
- Third Segment (Package Code): Identifies the package size and type.
What Triggers an Obsolete NDC Status?
The obsolete date for an NDC is typically reported by the drug manufacturer or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This date marks the point from which the product is considered unavailable due to various reasons, including:
- Cessation of Marketing: The company has stopped actively promoting or selling the product.
- Cessation of Production: The manufacturing of the drug has been discontinued.
- Cessation of Distribution: The product is no longer being shipped or made available through supply chains.
Essentially, an obsolete NDC signifies that the drug is no longer being supplied to pharmacies, hospitals, or other points of sale.
Implications of an Obsolete NDC
For healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and patients, an obsolete NDC has several key implications:
- Unavailable Product: The drug can no longer be ordered or dispensed.
- Need for Alternatives: Patients currently taking the medication will need to consult with their healthcare provider to find an alternative drug, formulation, or treatment plan.
- Inventory Management: Pharmacies and healthcare facilities must remove obsolete products from their active inventory and update their drug databases.
- Prescription Processing: Pharmacy systems will flag NDCs as obsolete, preventing new prescriptions from being filled for that specific product.
Practical Insight: If a patient's prescription lists an obsolete NDC, pharmacists will typically reach out to the prescribing physician to discuss therapeutic equivalents or alternative medications. This ensures continuity of care and avoids treatment interruptions.
For further information on National Drug Codes and their status, you can refer to official health portals and drug databases. For instance, detailed information on NDCs and their statuses, including obsolete dates, is often managed by state health departments and federal agencies. You can find more general information about NDCs on portals like the Wisconsin ForwardHealth Portal.
