About DDI

The Division of Drug Information is the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research’s (CDER's) focal point for public inquiries regarding human drug products.  We are dedicated to serving our global community by assisting all inquirers and providing useful, accurate information in a timely manner.

We are staffed with a team of pharmacists and other health professionals who provide expert advice and guidance regarding all aspects of CDER activities. Our visitors include consumers, health care professionals, insurance companies, regulated industry, academia, law enforcement, FDA, other government agencies (nationally and internationally), and others.

The Division is essentially open 365 days per year.  In other words, although we take phone calls only Monday through Friday, our traditional mailbox and email account fill up daily.  On average, per month, we answer approximately:

• 3,000 emails
• 4,000 telephone calls
• 600 letters

DDI Automatic Email Updates. Sign up for an E-mail notification to receive Drug Information updates on hot topics, frequently asked questions, and more.

The Division serves the Center and the American people in many ways.  Some examples are: 

• Writing "Questions and Answers". We often work internally with division scientists to create consistent overviews of important topics and emerging issues. These take the form of "Questions and Answers" web pages. They provide more background on a new drug approval or clarification on a new or revised FDA policy.
• Alerting the Public on Recall and Shortage Information. The Division works closely with the Office of Compliance on issues of drug availability. When a drug shortage or recall occurs, the Compliance officers alert our division and provide information available to share with the public.
• Hosting International Visitors.  A DDI team of pharmacists works with the Office of International Programs when foreign government officials visit the Center.  We present overviews on CDER, answer questions, and provide information.
• Providing a Drug Identification Service.  Division staff can identify drugs for you based on physical appearance and markings. Email DDI your drug description at: druginfo@fda.hhs.gov

 Contact DDI

Do you have a question and cannot find the answer? Please email, call, or write to our Division. Have you had any medicine-related issues you would like to share? Tell us your experience.