The phrase "the pill 213" is ambiguous because the imprint code "213" is used on several distinct medications with different shapes, colors, and active ingredients. Correctly identifying the pill is the first step toward understanding its uses, risks, and potential side effects. The information below details the specific side effects for the most common medications with this identifier.
Alprazolam (White, Round, 1mg, Imprint: 213)
This white, round pill with the imprint "213" is 1 mg of Alprazolam, an orally disintegrating tablet used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. As a benzodiazepine, it is a controlled substance with potential for abuse.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness, fatigue, and feeling unsteady
- Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
- Dry mouth and changes in appetite
Serious side effects
- Changes in mood or behavior, such as agitation or irritability
- Severe confusion or hallucinations
- Risk of physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon abrupt discontinuation
Norethindrone (Peach, Round, 0.35mg, Imprint: 213)
This peach, round pill with the imprint "213" is Norethindrone, a progesterone-only birth control pill. It is used for contraception and managing conditions like abnormal uterine bleeding and endometriosis.
Common side effects
- Irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting
- Headaches and breast tenderness
- Mood changes, including depression
- Nausea and weight changes
Serious side effects
- Risk of blood clots, though less than with combination pills
- Vision problems or severe headaches, which may signal a more serious issue
- Liver problems or high blood pressure
Sertraline Hydrochloride (Blue, Oval, 50mg, Imprint: I G 213)
Often identified by an additional "I G," this blue, oval pill is Sertraline Hydrochloride, a 50 mg selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues
- Insomnia or increased sleepiness
- Sexual problems, such as decreased libido or ejaculation failure
- Increased sweating and fatigue
Serious side effects
- Boxed Warning: Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in younger adults
- Serotonin syndrome, particularly when combined with other serotonergic drugs
- Abnormal bleeding or bruising
- Low sodium levels in the blood
Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release (Pink, Capsule/Oblong, 27mg, Imprint: 213)
This pink, capsule-shaped pill is 27 mg of extended-release Methylphenidate, a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It is used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It is a controlled substance (CSA Schedule 2) due to its high potential for abuse.
Common side effects
- Nervousness and insomnia
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Headache and stomach pain
- Dry mouth
Serious side effects
- Heart-related problems, including increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Psychiatric issues, such as psychosis, mania, or severe anxiety
- Circulation problems in fingers and toes
Comparison of Medications with "213" Imprint
| Feature | Alprazolam (White, Round) | Norethindrone (Peach, Round) | Sertraline (Blue, Oval, 'I G 213') | Methylphenidate (Pink, Capsule) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Benzodiazepine | Contraceptive/Progestogen | SSRI Antidepressant | CNS Stimulant |
| Common Uses | Anxiety, Panic Disorder | Birth Control, AUB, Endometriosis | Depression, Anxiety, OCD | ADHD, Narcolepsy |
| Key Side Effects | Drowsiness, fatigue, memory issues | Irregular bleeding, headache, nausea | Nausea, diarrhea, sexual dysfunction | Insomnia, decreased appetite, nervousness |
| Controlled? | Yes (Schedule 4) | No | No | Yes (Schedule 2) |
Important Considerations for Safe Medication Use
Before taking any medication, it is critical to confirm its identity with a healthcare professional or pharmacist. Do not rely solely on a search engine result. When identifying a pill, always note the color, shape, and any other markings to ensure you have the correct information. Mixing medications without professional guidance can lead to dangerous drug interactions. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact a medical professional immediately. Never abruptly stop taking a prescribed medication, especially those for psychiatric conditions, as this can cause serious withdrawal symptoms.
For more information on pill identification, visit the Pill Identifier on Drugs.com, a reliable resource for verifying medication details.
Conclusion
While the imprint "213" might appear on a pill, it does not uniquely identify a single medication. The side effects associated with "the pill 213" are entirely dependent on which specific drug you have, which can be identified by its color, shape, and other markings. Common drugs with this imprint include Alprazolam, Norethindrone, Sertraline, and Methylphenidate, each with its own distinct set of common and serious side effects. Always prioritize proper identification and consult a healthcare provider with any questions or concerns to ensure safe and effective treatment.
