RecallGuide.ca

    DINs, NPNs & Lot Numbers on Recalls

    When health products are recalled in Canada, you need to identify yours by specific numbers. This guide explains DINs, NPNs, and lot numbers—and how to use them to check if your product is affected.

    What Is a DIN (Drug Identification Number)?

    A Drug Identification Number (DIN) is an 8-digit number assigned by Health Canada to all pharmaceutical drugs sold in Canada. This includes:

    • Prescription medications
    • Over-the-counter drugs (pain relievers, cold medicines, etc.)
    • Disinfectants and sanitizers

    What a DIN Tells You

    The DIN confirms Health Canada has reviewed and approved the drug for sale. It identifies the specific manufacturer, brand name, active ingredient(s), strength, pharmaceutical form, and route of administration.

    When health products are recalled, the recall notice will specify which DIN(s) are affected.

    What Is an NPN (Natural Product Number)?

    A Natural Product Number (NPN) is an 8-digit number assigned to natural health products (NHPs) licensed by Health Canada. These include:

    • Vitamins and minerals
    • Herbal remedies
    • Homeopathic medicines (DIN-HM)
    • Traditional medicines (e.g., Traditional Chinese Medicine)
    • Probiotics
    • Amino acids and essential fatty acids

    DIN-HM Note

    Homeopathic medicines may have a DIN-HM number instead of an NPN. This serves the same purpose—confirming the product is licensed for sale in Canada.

    Products with an NPN or DIN-HM have been assessed by Health Canada for safety, efficacy, and quality under the Natural Health Products Regulations.

    Understanding Lot Numbers

    A lot number (also called batch number) identifies a specific production batch of a product. When a recall is issued, it often affects only certain lots—not all products with that DIN or NPN.

    Why Lot Numbers Matter

    Recalls are often limited to specific lots because the issue (contamination, incorrect dosage, labelling error) occurred during a particular production run. If your lot number isn't on the recall list, your specific product may not be affected.

    Lot numbers typically appear as a combination of letters and numbers, such as:

    • LOT: 2024A1234
    • B/N 789456
    • Batch No. AB2024C

    Where to Find These Numbers

    DIN/NPN Location

    • • Outer box/carton (usually near the barcode)
    • • Bottle or container label
    • • Blister pack backing
    • • Look for "DIN," "NPN," or "DIN-HM" followed by 8 digits

    Lot Number Location

    • • Bottom or side of the outer box
    • • Bottle label (often near expiry date)
    • • Blister pack edge or backing
    • • May be stamped, printed, or embossed

    Expiry Date

    • • Often near the lot number
    • • Format: YYYY-MM or MM/YYYY
    • • Recall notices may specify affected expiry date ranges

    Tip: Take Photos

    Before discarding packaging, take photos of the DIN/NPN, lot number, and expiry date. This makes it easy to check against recall notices later.

    Using Numbers to Check Recalls

    1. 1
      Find the recall notice

      Search health product recalls or check the Health Canada recalls database.

    2. 2
      Match the DIN or NPN

      Compare the 8-digit number on your product to the DIN/NPN listed in the recall.

    3. 3
      Check the lot number

      If DIN/NPN matches, check if your lot number is on the affected list. Not all lots may be recalled.

    4. 4
      Verify expiry date (if applicable)

      Some recalls specify expiry date ranges. Check if your product's date falls within the range.

    For step-by-step guidance, see our guide on how to check for product recalls in Canada.

    What to Do If Your Product Is Affected

    1. 1
      Stop using the product

      Follow the recall notice instructions. Some may say "stop use," others may advise continuing until you can get a replacement.

    2. 2
      Contact your healthcare provider

      If the recall involves a prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about alternatives.

    3. 3
      Return for a refund or replacement

      Return to the pharmacy or retailer where you purchased it. They should accept returns for recalled products.

    Learn more in our guide on health product recalls in Canada.

    Common Questions

    What is a DIN (Drug Identification Number)?

    A DIN is an 8-digit number assigned by Health Canada to all prescription and over-the-counter drugs sold in Canada. It confirms the drug has been approved for sale and identifies the manufacturer, product name, active ingredients, strength, form, and route of administration.

    What is an NPN (Natural Product Number)?

    An NPN is an 8-digit number assigned to natural health products (vitamins, supplements, herbal remedies) that have been licensed by Health Canada. It indicates the product has been assessed for safety, efficacy, and quality.

    Where do I find the lot number on medications?

    Lot numbers (also called batch numbers) are typically printed on the outer packaging, bottle label, or blister pack. Look for "LOT," "Lot No.," "Batch," or "B/N" followed by a series of numbers and/or letters.

    Health product recall information is published by Health Canada. Visit Health Canada