Finding an unmarked or partially identified pill can be concerning and unsafe. The most common medication matching a description of a 'blue pill with 89 on it' is Etodolac, but other, more potent substances must be ruled out through careful examination of the full imprint, color, and shape.
Identifying Etodolac: The Blue, Oval '89 TARO' Pill
The most likely candidate for a blue, oval pill imprinted with '89' is Etodolac 500 mg. The full imprint is typically '89' on one side and 'TARO' on the other, indicating the manufacturer, Taro Pharmaceuticals. Etodolac is a prescription-only nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to manage pain and inflammation. Unlike certain other drugs, this formulation is not a controlled substance.
How Etodolac Works
As an NSAID, Etodolac's mechanism of action involves inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. By doing so, it reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are compounds in the body that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. This anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect is what makes it effective for conditions like arthritis.
Therapeutic Uses of Etodolac
- Osteoarthritis: Used for both acute and long-term management of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An effective treatment for the pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Acute Pain: Prescribed for the short-term relief of mild to moderate pain.
Other Blue Pills with '89' on the Imprint
It is crucial to recognize that different imprints on a blue pill with '89' can signify entirely different medications. The full, specific code is the most reliable identifier.
Triazolam: The Blue, Oval '12 89' Pill
For instance, a blue, oval pill with the imprint '12 89' is Triazolam 0.25 mg, sold under the brand name Halcion. This medication is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia and belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. This is a critical distinction from Etodolac.
Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate: The Blue & White 'U 89' Capsule
Another possibility is a blue and white capsule imprinted with 'U 89', which is Omeprazole and Sodium Bicarbonate 40 mg / 1100 mg. This combination is used to treat stomach acid-related conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers and is not a controlled substance.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Medications containing '89' have distinct risk profiles. Etodolac, as an NSAID, carries significant warnings:
- Cardiovascular Risks: NSAIDs like Etodolac can increase the risk of serious, potentially fatal, cardiovascular thrombotic events, including heart attack and stroke. This risk may increase with duration of use and is a particular concern for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. A black box warning from the FDA advises against using Etodolac before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
- Gastrointestinal Risks: Etodolac can also increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. Elderly patients are at a higher risk.
Conversely, Triazolam's main risks involve dependency, abuse, and side effects common to benzodiazepines, such as excessive drowsiness, dizziness, and problems with coordination. The risk of serious sedation and breathing problems increases significantly when combined with opioids.
Safe Practices for Pill Identification
- Do not ingest: Never take any pill you cannot positively identify. Ingesting an unknown pill is extremely dangerous due to potential allergies, drug interactions, or incorrect dosage.
- Use all information: Use the color, shape, and full alphanumeric imprint code to identify a pill accurately. Visual confirmation with images from reliable sources is also recommended.
- Consult a professional: If you are unsure, speak with a pharmacist or other healthcare provider. They have professional resources to confirm the medication.
- Call Poison Control: If you suspect an accidental ingestion or overdose, call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.
Comparison of Medications with '89' in the Imprint
| Full Imprint | Drug Name | Drug Class | Controlled Substance? | Common Uses | Potential Risks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89 TARO | Etodolac 500 mg | NSAID | No | Osteoarthritis, pain, rheumatoid arthritis | Cardiovascular events, GI bleeding, kidney damage |
| 12 89 | Triazolam 0.25 mg | Benzodiazepine | Yes (Schedule IV) | Insomnia (short-term) | Dependence, abuse, impaired coordination, severe sedation |
| U 89 | Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate 40 mg | Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) & Antacid | No | GERD, ulcers, stomach acid reduction | C. difficile infection, low magnesium, bone fracture risk |
Conclusion: Identification for Safety
The imprint code is the most critical piece of information for identifying any pill. While a blue pill with '89 on it' is most commonly Etodolac, a prescription NSAID, a seemingly minor difference in the imprint could point to a controlled substance like Triazolam. Never guess the identity of a medication based on partial information. Always verify the full imprint, shape, and color using trusted tools or a healthcare professional before making any assumptions about its identity or purpose. In a medical emergency, quick and accurate identification can be lifesaving.
For more information on medications and safe use, consult the U.S. National Library of Medicine's resource: DailyMed.
