Drug Storage, NDC Numbers and Recalls
Updated October 27, 2026
Storing medications correctly, reading NDC numbers and handling recalls are everyday pharmacy technician tasks that show up on the PTCE. Here’s what to know, followed by free practice questions.
Storage temperatures
USP defines these storage conditions:
| Condition | Range |
|---|---|
| Controlled room temperature | 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) |
| Refrigerator | 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) |
| Freezer | −25°C to −10°C (−13°F to 14°F) |
Many vaccines, insulin vials not yet in use, and some eye drops and antibiotic suspensions are refrigerated. Always follow the product’s labeling.
The NDC number
A National Drug Code identifies a drug product. It has 10 digits in three segments:
- Labeler code: the manufacturer or distributor.
- Product code: the drug, strength and dosage form.
- Package code: the package size and type.
Billing systems often use an 11-digit version with a leading zero added to one segment.
Lot numbers and expiration dates
The lot number identifies a batch, which matters in a recall. Check expiration dates regularly, pull expired stock, and handle it according to your pharmacy’s procedure (for example, returning it through a reverse distributor).
FDA recall classes
| Class | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Class I | The most serious: a reasonable probability the product will cause serious harm or death |
| Class II | May cause temporary or medically reversible harm, or the chance of serious harm is remote |
| Class III | Unlikely to cause harm, but violates FDA rules |
Free practice questions
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What is the refrigerator temperature range defined by USP?Answer: BUSP defines refrigerator storage as 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Controlled room temperature is 20°C to 25°C.
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The first segment of an NDC number identifies the:Answer: CThe NDC's three segments are the labeler code, product code and package code, in that order.
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Which FDA recall class is the most serious?Answer: AA Class I recall means there's a reasonable probability the product could cause serious harm or death.
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During a recall, which information identifies the affected batch of a drug?Answer: BThe lot number identifies the specific batch made at the same time, so the pharmacy can find and pull exactly the recalled units.
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What is controlled room temperature?Answer: CUSP defines controlled room temperature as 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
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How many digits are in a standard NDC number?Answer: DThe standard NDC has 10 digits in three segments. Billing systems often use an 11-digit format with a leading zero added.
Pass the PTCB exam on your first try
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