The second letter 'T' in the Orange Book refers to what form of medication?

The second letter 'T' in the Orange Book stands for "Topical." The Orange Book, officially known as the “Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations,” is a key resource used in the pharmaceutical industry to identify and evaluate the therapeutic equivalence of drug products.

When a drug is classified as "Topical," it means that the medication is designed to be applied directly to a specific area of the skin or mucous membranes. This is an important category as it influences how the drug works relative to systemic medications that enter the bloodstream. Topical medications can be formulated in various forms such as creams, ointments, gels, and patches, catering to a wide range of therapeutic effects.

Understanding the classifications in the Orange Book is crucial for pharmacy technicians as they help determine the availability of generic alternatives and therapeutic equivalents, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective medications as prescribed.