Which information is required on prescription labels for most drugs?

Expiration dates are essential on prescription labels because they indicate the date until which a medication can be expected to retain its potency and safety. Including the expiration date helps ensure that the patient is aware of the limit within which they should use the medication for maximum effectiveness.

In pharmacy practice, it's crucial for patients to be informed about the timeline in which they should consume their medications. Using medications beyond their expiration date poses a risk of reduced efficacy and potential health risks, as chemical compositions can change over time. Therefore, the presence of an expiration date on the label serves as a vital safeguard for patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.

While other information such as refills available, the initials of the person who processed the prescription, and the NDC number can also be relevant, none are as universally critical as the expiration date when ensuring that a patient receives a medication that is both safe and effective throughout its intended shelf life.