Identifying a pill can require a bit of research, especially if you find it without any other identifying information (such as a prescription bottle). However pills are unique in their appearance, particularly in the number that is imprinted on most pills. Although each pill does not have its own unique number, the pills number combined with other identifying features is usually enough to allow you to determine what the pill is.
Step 1
Note the imprinted numbers on both sides of the pill, as well as the color and shape. Letters or other symbols may also be imprinted; make sure that you check both sides of the pill.
Step 2
Enter in the imprint number, as well as other descriptors (color, shape) into an online pill database. Drugs.com and RxList.com both have searchable databases that can be used to identify your pill.
Step 3
Compare the results from the database to your pill. Drugs.com provides images of every pill that meets your criteria, so you can use them as a reference.
Step 4
Check with your pharmacist, who may have access to a more comprehensive and up-to-date database. Your pharmacist may also be able to check with other pharmacists to see if the pill has been manufactured outside of the United States.
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