The Critical Importance of Correct Pill Identification
Taking the wrong medication can have serious health consequences. Pill imprints, like "L167," are used to help identify drugs, but they are not always unique. The color, size, and shape of a pill are equally important clues [1.2.2]. The imprint L167 is a primary example of this ambiguity, as it is used on two completely different medications with vastly different uses and safety profiles [1.6.1]. Misidentifying an L167 pill could lead to ineffective treatment or dangerous side effects. Always verify medication with the information provided by your pharmacy or consult a healthcare professional if you are unsure.
What is a L167 Pill? It Depends on the Color
The answer to "What is a L167 pill?" is not singular. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations require solid oral dosage form drugs to be imprinted, but these codes can be reused. Based on the pill's appearance, L167 can be identified as one of two prescription drugs [1.2.1, 1.2.3].
The Tan L167 Pill: Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1 mg
If the pill is tan, oval-shaped, and approximately 7mm in size, it is identified as Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1 mg [1.2.1, 1.3.1]. This medication is manufactured by Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited [1.2.1].
Primary Uses and Mechanism: Clonidine is a prescription drug belonging to a class called centrally acting antiadrenergic agents [1.2.1]. It is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) [1.2.5]. It works by acting on alpha-agonist receptors in the brain to relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and thus lowering blood pressure [1.4.6]. Clonidine is also prescribed for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sometimes for pain management or treating symptoms of opioid withdrawal [1.2.1, 1.4.2].
Side Effects and Serious Warnings: Common side effects of clonidine include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, and constipation [1.4.1, 1.4.2]. A significant warning associated with clonidine is the risk of rebound hypertension—a sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure if the medication is stopped abruptly [1.4.3]. Patients should never stop taking clonidine without consulting their doctor. Due to its sedative effects, activities requiring mental alertness, like driving, should be avoided until you know how the drug affects you [1.4.9]. Combining clonidine with alcohol can increase these side effects and should be avoided [1.4.9].
The White L167 Pill: Ibuprofen 600 mg
If the pill is white, oval-shaped, and larger at 17mm, it has been identified as Ibuprofen 600 mg [1.2.3, 1.3.2]. This is a prescription-strength dose; over-the-counter ibuprofen typically comes in 200 mg tablets. This specific pill was supplied by the Perrigo Company [1.2.3].
Primary Uses and Mechanism: Ibuprofen is a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) [1.2.3]. It works by inhibiting the body's production of prostaglandins, which are substances that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. The 600 mg prescription dose is used to manage more significant pain, such as back pain, chronic pain, and pain from arthritis [1.2.3].
Side Effects and Serious Warnings: Common side effects of ibuprofen include stomach upset, nausea, and heartburn. More serious risks associated with NSAIDs, especially at prescription strength and with long-term use, include an increased risk of stomach bleeding, ulcers, and cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. People with a history of stomach problems, heart disease, or kidney disease should use NSAIDs with caution and under a doctor's supervision.
Comparison Table: Tan L167 vs. White L167
| Feature | Tan L167 Pill | White L167 Pill |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Clonidine Hydrochloride [1.3.1] | Ibuprofen [1.3.2] |
| Strength | 0.1 mg [1.3.1] | 600 mg [1.3.2] |
| Appearance | Tan, Oval, 7mm [1.2.1] | White, Oval, 17mm [1.2.3] |
| Drug Class | Antiadrenergic agent [1.2.1] | NSAID [1.2.3] |
| Primary Use | High blood pressure, ADHD [1.2.1] | Pain, Inflammation [1.2.3] |
| Availability | Prescription Only [1.2.1] | Prescription and/or OTC [1.2.3] |
| Key Warning | Do not stop suddenly [1.4.3] | Risk of stomach bleeding |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the imprint "L167" does not point to a single medication. It is a crucial example of why a pill's physical characteristics are vital for accurate identification. The tan L167 pill is Clonidine 0.1 mg, a potent medication for blood pressure and ADHD with serious risks if stopped suddenly [1.2.1, 1.4.3]. The white L167 pill is a prescription-strength dose of the common pain reliever Ibuprofen [1.2.3]. Given these significant differences, never ingest a medication based solely on an imprint code. Always confirm the drug's identity with your prescription label, pharmacist, or a trusted medical resource to ensure your safety.
For more information, you can use a professional pill identifier tool, such as the one provided by Drugs.com.
