How to Check an FDA Drug Recall by Name, NDC, or Lot Number

A drug name alone is often not enough to determine whether a recall record applies to the medicine you have. Different manufacturers, strengths, package sizes, and lots may be treated separately.

Start with the package

Before searching, collect the information printed on the bottle, carton, blister pack, or pharmacy label:

• Generic and brand name
• Strength and dosage form
• Manufacturer or distributor
• National Drug Code, usually labeled NDC
• Lot, batch, or code number
• Expiration date

Do not share a prescription number, patient name, address, or other personal information. Those details are not needed to search public recall records.

Search broadly, then compare precisely

Begin with the generic or brand name. If there are several results, narrow them by manufacturer, NDC, or code information.

The product description should match more than the medicine’s name. Check the strength, dosage form, and package size. Then compare the record’s code information with the lot or batch printed on your package.

Understand the FDA classification

FDA enforcement records may be classified as Class I, II, or III. The classification describes the relative health-hazard assessment used for the recall; it is not a recommendation for an individual patient.

The FDA Drug Recalls page explains the recall process and links to current announcements.

If no matching record appears

“No matching record” only describes the dataset search. It does not establish that a product is safe, unaffected, or currently available. The spelling may differ, the record may not have reached the dataset yet, or the issue may be a different kind of FDA communication.

If you believe your package may be affected:

1. Keep the package and its identifying information.
2. Contact the dispensing pharmacy.
3. Follow instructions from the manufacturer or FDA announcement.
4. Do not stop a prescribed medication without speaking to a qualified health professional.