The Importance of Pill Imprints for Accurate Identification
The imprint on a pill—a code of letters, numbers, or a logo—is a regulatory requirement for prescription drugs in many countries, including the United States. This marking is a vital tool for pharmacists, emergency responders, and individuals to correctly identify a medication. Without it, distinguishing between a benign over-the-counter medicine and a potent prescription drug would be nearly impossible. When you find a pill with an ambiguous marking like '87', it is critical to look for other distinguishing features.
Key factors for identification
To accurately identify a pill, you must consider:
- Shape: Is the pill round, oval, capsule-shaped, or another unique shape, such as U-shaped?
- Color: Is the entire pill white, or does it have a specific coating or tint?
- Other Markings: Is there a letter or another number in addition to '87'? Often, the complete imprint provides the definitive answer.
Possible Medications for a White Pill with '87'
Based on reliable pill identification databases, a white pill with '87' on it is most likely one of several distinct medications, each with a different purpose and intended use. The variations in shape and additional markings are the key differentiating factors.
Valacyclovir Hydrochloride 1 gram (Imprint: I 87)
Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug used to treat viral infections caused by the herpes family of viruses.
- Appearance: A white, capsule-shaped (oblong) tablet.
- Drug Class: Antiviral.
- Common Uses: Treating herpes simplex (genital herpes and cold sores), herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox. It is available only with a prescription.
Famotidine 20 mg (Imprint: 87)
Famotidine is an H2 antagonist that reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
- Appearance: A white, U-shaped tablet with just '87' imprinted on one side.
- Drug Class: H2 antagonist.
- Common Uses: Treating conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and duodenal ulcers.
Bisoprolol Fumarate 10 mg (Imprint: C 87)
Bisoprolol Fumarate is a cardioselective beta-blocker that affects the heart's blood flow and heart rate.
- Appearance: A white, round tablet with 'C 87' on it.
- Drug Class: Cardioselective beta-blocker.
- Common Uses: Managing high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure.
Estradiol 0.5 mg (Imprint: E 87)
Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female hormone essential for many bodily functions.
- Appearance: A white, round tablet with 'E 87' on it.
- Drug Class: Estrogen.
- Common Uses: Addressing symptoms of menopause, atrophic vaginitis, and as a component of gender-affirming hormone therapy.
Comparison of White '87' Pills
| Feature | Valacyclovir 1 g | Famotidine 20 mg | Bisoprolol 10 mg | Estradiol 0.5 mg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Imprint | I 87 | 87 | C 87 | E 87 |
| Shape | Capsule/Oblong | U-shape | Round | Round |
| Drug Class | Antiviral | H2 Antagonist | Beta Blocker | Estrogen |
| Primary Use | Herpes infections | GERD, ulcers | Hypertension, heart failure | Menopause, hormone therapy |
| Prescription | Yes | Both OTC and prescription exist, but this specific imprint is prescription | Yes | Yes |
Safely Identifying an Unknown Pill
- Do not consume: Never take a medication that you cannot positively identify. The potential for dangerous side effects and drug interactions is too high.
- Examine all markings: Use the entire imprint code, including letters and numbers, as well as the pill's color and shape.
- Utilize an online pill identifier: The U.S. National Library of Medicine provides a robust pill identifier tool through its DailyMed database. Other reliable websites like Drugs.com and WebMD also offer comprehensive pill identification resources.
- Consult a professional: If you remain unsure, take the pill to a pharmacist, who can identify it based on their extensive knowledge and professional resources. If you found the pill in your home and believe it may be related to your own medication, consult your doctor's records.
- Dispose of properly: If the pill is unidentified and unwanted, follow proper drug disposal guidelines. Many pharmacies offer safe disposal services.
Conclusion
The simple imprint '87' on a white pill is not enough information for a definitive identification. As demonstrated, it could belong to an antiviral, an acid reducer, a beta-blocker, or an estrogen hormone, among other possibilities. The critical takeaway is the need to examine the pill's full characteristics—imprint, shape, and size—and to use a reliable pill identification tool or consult a healthcare professional. Taking an unknown medication is a serious risk and should always be avoided.
For further reference, the FDA provides a comprehensive resource for drug labels and safety information on its website: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/.
