The imprint code on a pill—a series of letters and numbers stamped into its surface—is the most reliable way to identify a medication. For pills marked with the letters 'IG', the crucial detail is that this is the manufacturer's mark for InvaGen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a company that produces a wide range of generic prescription drugs. Simply knowing the manufacturer is not enough for identification, as InvaGen produces numerous medications. To determine the specific drug, one must combine the 'IG' imprint with other distinguishing features like the associated number, color, and shape of the pill.
How to Identify a Pill with the 'IG' Imprint
To accurately identify a pill with the 'IG' imprint, you will need to perform a thorough search using an online pill identifier tool. These tools, available on websites like Drugs.com and DailyMed, contain extensive databases of prescription and over-the-counter medications and allow users to input a combination of features to narrow down results.
Steps for identification:
- Gather all information: Look for the full imprint code. For example, instead of just 'IG', the code might be 'IG 256' or 'IG 309'. The additional numbers are critical for pinpointing the exact drug and dosage.
- Note physical characteristics: Take note of the pill's color, shape (e.g., round, oval, capsule), and whether it has a score or is coated. These details are important filters in any identification search.
- Use an online tool: Enter the information into a reputable pill identifier. The tool will provide a list of possible matches, complete with high-resolution photos and detailed drug information. This process is far more reliable and safe than making assumptions based on partial information.
- Consult a healthcare professional: Once you have a potential match, do not take the medication without confirmation. A pharmacist or doctor can confirm the identification and ensure the pill is safe for you to take. They can also explain the medication's purpose, dosage, and potential side effects.
Examples of Medications with the 'IG' Imprint
Many common generic medications are manufactured by InvaGen and bear the 'IG' imprint. The following are just a few examples that illustrate how widely this mark is used.
Antidepressants and Anxiolytics
- Escitalopram Oxalate (I G 250, I G 251): A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat major depressive disorder and anxiety. The 10 mg tablet is white and round, while the 20 mg tablet is also white and round.
- Sertraline Hydrochloride (I G 212, I G 213, I G 214): Another SSRI prescribed for depression, OCD, and panic disorder. These pills come in different colors and dosages, such as green (25 mg), blue (50 mg), and yellow (100 mg).
- Citalopram Hydrobromide (I G 206, I G 207, I G 208): Also an SSRI used for depression. This medication comes in various strengths and colors, like beige (10 mg), pink (20 mg), and white (40 mg).
- Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride (IG 276): An antihistamine and anxiolytic prescribed for anxiety, allergies, and nausea. The 25 mg tablet is typically tan and round.
Cardiovascular and Pain Medications
- Hydralazine Hydrochloride (IG 309, IG 310, IG 311, IG 312): An antihypertensive medication used to treat high blood pressure. This pill is orange and round, with different numbers corresponding to various strengths.
- Amlodipine Besylate (IG 237, IG 238, IG 239): A calcium channel blocker used for hypertension and angina. The tablets are white and round, with numbers indicating different strengths.
- Gabapentin (IG321, IG322): An anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain medication. The capsules come in different colors and dosages, such as 100 mg (white) and 300 mg (yellow).
Hormone and Cholesterol Management
- Raloxifene Hydrochloride (IG 256): Used to prevent and treat osteoporosis and to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is a white, round tablet.
- Gemfibrozil (I G 225): A fibrate used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The tablet is white and oval.
Comparing Medications with the 'IG' Imprint
This table provides a snapshot of how the 'IG' imprint, when combined with other identifiers, can indicate very different medications.
| Imprint | Drug Name | Condition Treated | Shape | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG 256 | Raloxifene HCL | Osteoporosis, Breast Cancer Prevention | Round | White |
| IG 309 | Hydralazine HCL | High Blood Pressure | Round | Orange |
| I G 250 | Escitalopram Oxalate | Depression, Anxiety | Round | White |
| IG 238 | Amlodipine Besylate | High Blood Pressure, Angina | Round | White |
| IG 276 | Hydroxyzine HCL | Anxiety, Allergies, Nausea | Round | Tan |
| IG 321 | Gabapentin | Seizures, Nerve Pain | Capsule/Oblong | White |
| IG 212 | Sertraline HCL | Depression, Anxiety, OCD | Oval | Green |
Safety Precautions for Unidentified Pills
Encountering an unidentified pill should be treated with caution. Taking any medication without certain knowledge of its identity, dosage, and intended use can be dangerous. The most responsible course of action is to avoid consuming the pill and instead follow safe handling and disposal procedures.
Best Practices:
- Do not take it. Never ingest a medication unless it was specifically prescribed to you and you can confirm its identity with your doctor or pharmacist. A pill's appearance can be easily confused with another, and the consequences could be severe.
- Secure it safely. To prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or other adults, store the pill securely in a lidded container or baggie, keeping it separate from other medications.
- Consult a professional. Take the pill to your pharmacist. They have the expertise and resources to accurately identify it and advise you on the next steps.
- Proper disposal. If the pill is not needed, dispose of it properly. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) sponsors National Prescription Drug Take Back Days where you can dispose of unused medication safely. Some pharmacies also have medication disposal programs.
Conclusion
The imprint 'IG' on a pill is a valuable clue, but it is only the first step in the identification process. Because the mark is used by InvaGen Pharmaceuticals on a multitude of different generic drugs, relying on this code alone is insufficient and potentially unsafe. Using an online pill identifier in combination with the specific number code, shape, and color is necessary for an accurate search. Most importantly, always verify your findings with a healthcare professional before consuming any unidentified medication. Pill identification is a serious matter of personal safety, and responsible action is critical for preventing accidental harm.
For reliable pill identification, use the Drugs.com Pill Identifier tool.
