The Danger and Difficulty of Identifying Pills by Imprint Alone
A single number, like '58', on a pill is not a unique identifier. Pharmaceutical companies use imprints, which are combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols, to mark their products. However, different manufacturers can use the same imprint for entirely different medications [1.2.1, 1.6.1]. Taking a medication without being certain of its identity is extremely dangerous. Factors like the pill's color, shape, size, and any other markings are crucial for accurate identification. For example, a white oval pill with 'TV' on one side and '58' on the other is very different from a purple round pill with just 'M58' [1.2.3, 1.6.2]. This article will detail the most common medication associated with the '58' imprint and explore other possibilities to highlight why you must always verify medication with a healthcare professional.
The Most Common '58' Pill: Tramadol Hydrochloride 50 mg
The most frequently identified pill with a '58' imprint is Tramadol Hydrochloride 50 mg [1.3.1].
Identification
This pill is typically a white, oval-shaped, film-coated tablet debossed with 'TV' on one side and '58' on the other [1.2.2, 1.2.3]. It is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1.3.7].
What is Tramadol Used For?
Tramadol is a prescription opioid analgesic used to manage pain that is severe enough to require an opioid and when other pain treatments are inadequate [1.3.7]. It is often prescribed for moderate to severe pain, including chronic pain or pain following surgery or a serious injury [1.2.3, 1.2.7]. It works by acting on the central nervous system (CNS) to change how the body feels and responds to pain [1.2.5].
Risks, Warnings, and Side Effects
As an opioid, Tramadol carries significant risks. It is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the U.S. due to its potential for abuse and dependence [1.3.1].
- Addiction and Dependence: Long-term use can lead to physical dependence, and suddenly stopping the medication can cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, sweating, nausea, and tremors [1.2.5]. Misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, and death [1.3.7].
- Respiratory Depression: Like other opioids, Tramadol can cause slow or shallow breathing, which can be life-threatening. This risk is highest when starting the medication or increasing the dose [1.3.7].
- Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when Tramadol is taken, especially with other serotonergic drugs like certain antidepressants. Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and muscle stiffness [1.3.7].
- Seizure Risk: Tramadol can increase the risk of seizures, especially in patients with a history of seizures or those taking other medications that lower the seizure threshold [1.3.7].
- Common Side Effects: More common, less severe side effects may include dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation [1.3.7, 1.4.5].
It is crucial not to drink alcohol while taking Tramadol, as it can increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness [1.2.7]. Always take this medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Other Medications with a '58' Imprint
Several other medications also use the '58' imprint, which look different from Tramadol.
- I 58: This is a white, round pill identified as Sildenafil 100 mg [1.2.4, 1.3.2]. Sildenafil is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension [1.3.2].
- M58: This is a purple, round pill identified as Levothyroxine Sodium 75 mcg [1.6.2, 1.6.3]. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone [1.6.4].
- V 58: This is a white, oval pill identified as Deferasirox 360 mg [1.2.6]. Deferasirox is a chelating agent used to treat iron overload caused by blood transfusions [1.2.6].
- CC 58: This is a pink, round pill identified as Famotidine 10 mg [1.3.5].
Comparison of Common '58' Pills
To avoid confusion, this table summarizes the key differences between these medications.
| Imprint | Medication Name | Strength | Appearance | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TV 58 | Tramadol Hydrochloride [1.3.1] | 50 mg [1.3.1] | White, Oval [1.3.1] | Moderate to severe pain [1.3.1] |
| I 58 | Sildenafil Citrate [1.3.2] | 100 mg [1.3.2] | White, Round [1.3.2] | Erectile dysfunction [1.3.2] |
| M58 | Levothyroxine Sodium [1.6.2] | 75 mcg [1.6.2] | Purple, Round [1.6.2] | Hypothyroidism [1.6.2] |
| V 58 | Deferasirox [1.2.6] | 360 mg [1.2.6] | White, Oval [1.2.6] | Iron overload [1.2.6] |
Conclusion: Always Verify with a Professional
The imprint '58' on a pill is not enough to identify it. While it most commonly refers to Tramadol 50 mg, it can also be Sildenafil, Levothyroxine, or other drugs with vastly different uses and risks [1.3.1, 1.3.2, 1.6.2]. Never ingest a medication unless you are absolutely certain what it is and it has been prescribed for you by a licensed healthcare provider. If you find a pill and are unsure of its identity, consult a pharmacist or doctor. You can also use online resources for preliminary identification, but they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. For a reliable online tool, consider using the DailyMed Pill Identification Tool.
