The NDC number consists of three sets of digits. What does the first set indicate?

The first set of digits in the National Drug Code (NDC) number is critical as it identifies the manufacturer or labeler of the drug. This set serves to distinguish different companies and helps ensure that drugs can be accurately and consistently identified by their producers. Each manufacturer is assigned a unique labeler code by the FDA, which is reflected in the NDC. This system allows for better tracking, inventory management, and regulation of medications within the healthcare system.

The other options, while relevant to medication, do not accurately describe the purpose of the first set of digits in the NDC. Drug classification, formulation, and expiration dates are important aspects of drug information, but they are not denoted by the first set of numbers in the NDC.