A Drug Identification Number (DIN) is a unique 8-digit code assigned by Health Canada to every pharmaceutical drug authorized for sale in Canada, serving as a vital identifier for key product information. It confirms that a drug has been reviewed and approved for use in Canada.
Core Characteristics Identified by a DIN
A DIN uniquely encapsulates crucial details about a drug product, ensuring transparency and aiding in product identification. These characteristics are fundamental for both healthcare professionals and consumers to understand exactly what a medication contains and how it is intended to be used.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Identifies the company responsible for producing and marketing the drug. |
| Product Name | Refers to the specific brand name or the generic name of the medication. |
| Active Ingredient(s) | Specifies the medicinal component(s) that are therapeutically active and responsible for the drug's effect. |
| Strength(s) of Active Ingredient(s) | Indicates the precise quantity or concentration of the active substance(s) in each dose. |
| Pharmaceutical Form | Describes the physical presentation of the drug (e.g., tablet, capsule, liquid, cream, injection). |
| Route of Administration | Details how the drug is intended to be taken or applied to the body (e.g., oral, topical, intravenous). |
When is a DIN Issued?
A DIN is issued by Health Canada after a drug product has successfully undergone a rigorous review process and is authorized for sale in the Canadian market. This signifies that the drug's safety, efficacy, and quality have been thoroughly assessed and deemed acceptable for public use according to Canadian regulatory standards.
Why is a DIN Important?
Understanding the information represented by a DIN is crucial for several reasons:
- Consumer Safety: It assures consumers that a product is authorized by Health Canada and contains the stated ingredients at the specified strengths.
- Healthcare Professional Guidance: Enables doctors, pharmacists, and nurses to quickly and accurately identify specific drug formulations, ensuring correct dispensing, administration, and patient safety.
- Market Surveillance: Facilitates Health Canada's monitoring of drug products in the market, including tracking recalls, adverse drug reactions, and ensuring ongoing compliance.
- Regulatory Compliance: Confirms that the drug meets all Canadian regulatory requirements before it reaches consumers.
How to Find and Verify a DIN
The DIN is typically displayed prominently on the drug's label or packaging. For verification or to search for authorized drugs and their associated details, individuals can utilize Health Canada's comprehensive Drug Product Database. This online tool allows users to look up drugs by DIN, product name, active ingredient, and more, providing transparent access to critical drug information.
