This unique topic covers:
- What is a MedDRA code?
- Distinct insights into these codes
Table of Contents
Introduction:
This brief article offers insights rarely covered in other blogs. We will explore what MedDRA codes are and explain the numerical identifiers often associated with MedDRA terms.
If you are a user of the MedDRA Browser, you have almost certainly noticed these codes—they’re hard to miss.
“In MedDRA, every code tells a story—not through its numbers, but through the precision it brings to global pharmacovigilance.”
Unique Insights into MedDRA Codes
Below are some unique insights that explain the purpose and significance of these codes:
- Every term in MedDRA has a unique code.
- A MedDRA code is a number assigned to represent each term.
- Example: Urticaria (term) → 10046735 (code)
- All MedDRA codes begin with the number “1”.
- Each code is unique and never reused—once assigned, it is never reassigned, even if the term becomes non-current.
- Every MedDRA term is linked to its own specific code.
- Familiarity with codes can make it easier to locate terms quickly.
- All codes are numeric only.
- If a PT and LLT are identical, they share the same code.
- Even non-current LLTs retain their unique codes.
- MedDRA codes identify terms—the numbers themselves don’t carry meaning.
- Each term is assigned an 8-digit numeric code starting with “1”.
- The code is non-expressive—it doesn’t describe the term.
- Codes are useful for filling data fields in electronic submissions (e.g., E2B).
- New terms receive codes sequentially.
- MedDRA “codes” are simply identification numbers—they do not reflect the dictionary’s structure or organization.
MedDRA Codes – Quick Reference Guide
| Feature | Insight |
|---|---|
| Definition | Each MedDRA term is assigned a unique numeric identifier, that includes non-current terms as well |
| Format | 8-digit numeric code, always starting with “1”. |
| Uniqueness | No two terms share the same code. Codes are never reused. |
| Numeric Only | Codes consist solely of numbers—no letters. |
| PT & LLT Match | If PT and LLT are identical, they share the same code. |
| Assignment | New terms get codes sequentially as they are added. |
| Non-Expressive | Codes do not indicate dictionary hierarchy or term type. |
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Conclusion
In this brief article, we highlighted key points that provide relevant and significant insights into MedDRA codes and their association with MedDRA terms. This perspective offers a different way of looking at MedDRA—one that is rarely discussed.
While concise, our aim was to share valuable information with our audience. If you found this article useful and insightful, we encourage you to share it with friends and colleagues who may wish to explore MedDRA in greater depth. We also welcome your recommendations and look forward to bringing you more such perspectives.
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