This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution of biological and medical products; botanical drugs and herbs; and pharmaceutical products intended for internal and external consumption in such forms as ampoules, tablets, capsules, vials, ointments, powders, solutions, and suspensions.

Cross-References.

Establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution of surgical, dental, and hospital equipment are classified in U.S. Industry 423450, Medical, Dental, and Hospital Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers.

For the 2012 and 2007 Commodity Flow Surveys, the wholesale establishments exclude any manufacturers sales offices and own brand importers.