Importance of Pill Identification
Identifying a pill solely by its color and a single number can be dangerous. Pharmaceutical companies often use common numbers and letters for various drugs, and slight differences in shape or other imprints are the key to distinguishing them. For example, a white pill with '36' could be for ADHD, acid reflux, or a serious muscular disease, depending entirely on its form. Incorrectly taking a medication can lead to severe health consequences, side effects, or a dangerous drug interaction. Always consult a healthcare professional to confirm any medication before use.
Common White Pills with 36
Several medications are known to be manufactured as a white pill with the number '36' imprinted on them. The best way to narrow down the possibilities is to examine the pill's shape and any additional markings. Below are some of the most common options.
Round White Pill with 36
- Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release 36 mg: This medication is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and depression. A specific version of this pill from the manufacturer Amneal was a white, round tablet with '36' on it, classified as a Schedule 2 controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse. Other manufacturers also produce a Methylphenidate ER 36mg in this form.
Four-Sided White Pill with 36
- Famotidine 40 mg: If the pill is white and has a four-sided or triangular shape with '36' on it, it may be Famotidine, a prescription-strength H2 antagonist used to treat and prevent heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and duodenal ulcers. This medication is not a controlled substance.
Oval White Pill with 36
- Emflaza (deflazacort) 36 mg: A white, oval, or elliptical pill with '36' on it has been identified as Emflaza, a glucocorticoid used to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This is a prescription-only medication and is not a controlled substance. Another potential match for a white oval pill is Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate 300 mg with the imprint 'I 36'.
Other Variations with 36
Sometimes, the imprint includes a letter in addition to the number, which further helps in identification.
- White Round Pill with I 36: Sildenafil Citrate 50 mg, used for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
- White Round Pill with X 36: Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg, an antihistamine for allergies and hives.
- White Round Pill with U36: Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate (300 mg / 30 mg), a combination opioid pain reliever.
How to Safely Identify an Unknown Pill
- Do not ingest: Never take a pill unless you are certain of what it is. If you find a loose pill or cannot remember your medication, do not take it.
- Examine all markings: Look for every number, letter, and logo. Check both sides of the pill, as some have different imprints on each side. These details are crucial for identification.
- Note the physical characteristics: Document the pill's color, shape (e.g., round, oval, capsule, four-sided), and size. A photo can be very helpful.
- Use a reliable pill identifier: Use reputable online databases like Drugs.com or Medicine.com. Search by the imprint code, color, and shape to narrow down the possibilities. This article is based on information from these types of databases.
- Consult a professional: The most reliable and safest method is to bring the pill to a pharmacist, doctor, or another healthcare provider for confirmation. They have access to comprehensive drug information and can provide definitive identification.
Comparison of Common White Pills with 36 Imprints
| Feature | Methylphenidate ER 36 mg | Famotidine 40 mg | Emflaza 36 mg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imprint | 36 | 36 | 36 |
| Shape | Round | Four-sided | Oval / Elliptical |
| Drug Class | CNS Stimulant | H2 Antagonist | Glucocorticoid |
| Uses | ADHD, Narcolepsy | GERD, Ulcers, Heartburn | Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy |
| Controlled | Yes (Schedule 2) | No | No |
| Prescription | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
As this overview illustrates, a simple imprint like '36' on a white pill is not enough information to make a definitive identification. This number corresponds to several different medications used for vastly different conditions, some of which are controlled substances with high potential for abuse. Relying solely on a partial description can lead to dangerous outcomes. The safest course of action is always to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or use a trusted pill identifier resource by examining all of the pill's characteristics, including its shape and any additional markings. Never take a medication you cannot definitively identify. If you or someone you know has taken a pill without certain identification and is experiencing adverse effects, seek immediate medical attention.
