The imprint on a pill is a crucial part of its identification, but it's only one piece of the puzzle. As is the case with the “C-17” mark, the combination of a pill's color and shape is what truly determines its identity. Without this additional information, it is impossible to know what medication you have. Misidentification of a pill can lead to dangerous health complications, so consulting all identifying characteristics is essential for safety.
Possible Medications for a C-17 Pill
Gemfibrozil (White, Oval)
One common medication associated with the imprint “C 17” on a white, oval pill is Gemfibrozil 600 mg.
- Drug Class: This medication is a fibric acid derivative.
- Uses: It is primarily used to treat high cholesterol and hyperlipoproteinemia by lowering lipid levels in the blood. It specifically targets elevated LDL and VLDL levels.
- Side Effects: Common side effects may include stomach upset, abdominal pain, and an increased risk of gallstones.
Cefprozil (White, Oblong)
Another drug identified by the imprint “C 17” is Cefprozil 500 mg, a white, oblong, capsule-shaped tablet.
- Drug Class: Cefprozil is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.
- Uses: It is prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as those affecting the bladder, kidneys, and middle ear, as well as cases of bronchitis.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, and Caffeine (White, Round)
A white, round pill with the imprint “C17” (without a space) is an analgesic combination containing Acetaminophen, Butalbital, and Caffeine.
- Drug Class: This prescription medication falls under the class of analgesic combinations.
- Uses: It is used to treat tension headaches.
- Side Effects: The butalbital component is a barbiturate that can be habit-forming, and the medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation. It is not a first-choice option for headaches due to its habit-forming potential. Overuse can also lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential liver damage from the acetaminophen.
Cetirizine Hydrochloride (White, Round)
An over-the-counter medication can also feature the imprint “C 17” on a white, round tablet, which identifies it as Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg.
- Drug Class: This is a non-sedating antihistamine.
- Uses: It is used to treat symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergies, including allergic rhinitis and urticaria (hives).
- Side Effects: Although it is generally less sedating than older antihistamines, some people may still experience drowsiness. Other side effects can include dry mouth, fatigue, and dizziness.
Comparison of Potential C-17 Pills
| Characteristic | Gemfibrozil | Cefprozil | Acetaminophen/Butalbital/Caffeine | Cetirizine Hydrochloride |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White, oval | White, oblong/capsule | White, round (imprint C17) | White, round (imprint C 17) |
| Strength | 600 mg | 500 mg | 325 mg / 50 mg / 40 mg | 10 mg |
| Drug Class | Fibric acid derivative | Second-generation cephalosporin | Analgesic combination | Antihistamine |
| Primary Use | High cholesterol | Bacterial infections | Tension headaches | Allergies |
| Prescription Status | Prescription | Prescription | Prescription | Over-the-counter |
| Abuse Potential | Low | Low | High (due to Butalbital) | Low |
Action Steps for Identifying an Unfamiliar Pill
If you find a pill with the “C-17” imprint and are unsure of its identity, follow these steps to ensure your safety:
- Do not take the pill. Never ingest a medication you cannot definitively identify. Improper use can lead to serious health issues, adverse reactions, or overdose.
- Document all details. Take a picture of the pill from different angles. Note its exact color, shape, size, and any other markings. Pay close attention to whether the imprint is “C17” or “C 17”.
- Use an online pill identifier. Reputable websites such as Drugs.com Pill Identifier or WebMD allow you to search for medications using physical characteristics.
- Consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist. This is the most reliable method for identification. A pharmacist can cross-reference the pill's features with your known prescriptions to confirm its identity.
- Contact the Poison Control Center. If you suspect an accidental overdose or poisoning, call 911 or the Poison Control Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.
Conclusion: The Importance of Safe Drug Identification
The case of the C-17 pill illustrates a critical lesson in pharmacology: a pill's imprint is only one piece of a larger puzzle. With multiple different medications sharing this mark but differing in shape, color, and drug content, relying solely on the imprint is a dangerous mistake. By combining the imprint code with the physical appearance and using reliable resources like online databases and pharmacist consultations, you can accurately identify an unknown pill and avoid potential health risks. Proper and careful identification is the only responsible way to handle medications to ensure your health and safety.
