All UK medicines (and most medicines around the world) that are pre-packed have a code panel on the packaging - typically, but not always, on one end of the pack. The position is often chosen so that, when stacked, it is possible to scan the codes of multiple packs at once. That is, stock control issues.
A typical code panel will have a 2D barcode and four items on information similar to the example below:
The Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) is assigned to the actual product, and will be different depending on packaging. For example, if a product is available in 28 and 56 tablet packaging, each will have its own GTIN. However, on actual medicine packs, it will likely be identifed by the code PC
S/N is a unique serial number.
LOT is effectively a batch number.
EXP is expiry in YYMMDD or MM/YYYY format.
Where known, GTIN codes for standard retail packs (not bulk packs) have been included in my medicines documents which are accessible from this blog post:
helvella - Thyroid Hormone Medicines
https://helvella.blogspot.com/p/helvella-thyroid-hormone-medicines.html
You can readily look up the GTIN of any medicine available in the UK.
(Other lookup mechanisms will be available elsewhere.)
https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/dmd-browser/code-lookup
Choose the GTIN from the Code type dropdown.
And enter the GTIN you wish to look up.
Click on Search.
If the GTIN is recognised, you will be taken to the page showing that product in more detail:
There are many phone apps which can scan the 2D barcode but few can properly interpret the data. The Cognex Barcode Scanner appears to work well on Apple iPhones. There is also an Android version available from Play Store.
In order to post this to HealthUnlocked, copy the entire dark red text below and paste into your post/reply:
[i][b]helvella - Looking up UK GTIN Codes[/b]
All UK medicines (and most medicines around the world) that are pre-packed have a code panel on the packaging - typically, but not always, on one end of the pack. The position is often chosen so that, when stacked, it is possible to scan the codes of multiple packs at once. That is, stock control issues.
The Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) is assigned to the actual product, and will be different depending on packaging. For example, if a product is available in 28 and 56 tablet packaging, each will have its own GTIN.
Last updated 10/02/2025[/i]
Link to blog:
https://helvella.blogspot.com/p/helvella-looking-up-uk-gtin-codes.html
If you find anything incorrect, misleading, typos, links that don’t work, etc., please let me know. Go to my profile and use the contact details there.
