Drug Quick Codes: Rules

Question 1

Rule 1

Answer 1

As a general rule, quick codes are typically assigned only to products that are in capsule or tablet formulations

Question 2

Rule 2

Answer 2

Quick codes are limited to 6 characters in the following format: AAA###
-A= alpha character
-#= numeric character or decimal

Question 3

Rule 3

Answer 3

If the product is a tablet or a capsule and it’s strength is 3 or less numeric characters, the quick codes format will be AAA###
- e.g. the quick code for LISnopril 20MG is LIS20

Question 4

Rule 4

Answer 4

If the product has a decimal after zero, omit the decimal and include the zero in the quick codes. The quick codes format will be AAA0##
-e.g. the quick code for ALPrazolam 0.25MG is ALP025

Question 5

Rule 5

Answer 5

If the product has a decimal after numeric value of 1-9, insert the decimal into the quick code. The quick code format will be AAA#.#
-e.g. the quick code for BUSpirone 7.5MG is BUS7.5

Question 6

Rule 5 part 2A

Answer 6

Quick codes are NOT assigned to products in the following instances:
A) items with multiple dosages or combination products
- multiple formulations: Ondansetron does not have a quick code because it comes in a tablet and a solution
-combination products: percocet 5/325 does not have a quick code because it is a combination product of oxycodone and acetraminophen

Question 7

Rule 5 part 2B

Answer 7

Quick codes are NOT assigned to:
Items where medications contain the same first 3 alpha characters and the same strength
-e.g. TRAzadone 50MG and TRAmadol 50MG do not have quick code

Question 8

Rule 5 part 2C

Answer 8

Quick codes are NOT assigned to:
If the strength of the medication is greater than 3 numeric or decimal characters
-e.g. Metformin 1000MG tablets and Phentermine 37.5MG tablets do not have a quick code

Question 9

Examples of common quick codes:

Answer 9

-Lisinopril 20MG tablets: LIS20
-Levothyroxine 0.125MG(125MCG) tablets: LEV125
-Alprazolam 0.25MG tablets: ALP025
-Buspirone 7.5MG tablets: BUS7.5