What does a "stop, check NDC" shelf tag indicate about a medication?

The "stop, check NDC" shelf tag is utilized in pharmacy settings to indicate that the medication is categorized as high-risk. This tag serves as an alert for pharmacy staff to exercise extra caution when handling, dispensing, or administering these medications. High-risk medications are known for having a greater potential for causing significant harm if mismanaged, which is why it is essential to verify the National Drug Code (NDC) to ensure the correct medication is being distributed.

In contrast, other classifications of medications, such as low-risk medications or newly introduced ones, do not require the same level of scrutiny imposed by the "stop, check NDC" tag. While controlled substances also warrant careful management, their identification involves specific regulations distinct from the general classification of high-risk medications. Therefore, the presence of the "stop, check NDC" tag specifically highlights the high-risk nature of the medication, necessitating caution and verification during the pharmacy process.