The imprint 'E 84' on a white, round pill is not exclusive to a single drug, highlighting the dangers of self-diagnosis and the importance of verification with a healthcare professional. Two primary medications are commonly associated with this marking: buspirone hydrochloride, an anti-anxiety agent, and penicillin V potassium, an antibiotic. The distinction between these two is critical for safe medication management.
Buspirone Hydrochloride 10 mg
One possibility for a white, round 'E 84' pill is Buspirone Hydrochloride 10 mg. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as anxiolytics, which are used to treat anxiety disorders. Unlike benzodiazepines, it is not a controlled substance and does not carry the same risk of dependence.
How Buspirone Works
The precise mechanism by which buspirone works is not fully understood, but it is known to affect certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine, to regulate mood. This action helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety such as nervousness, tension, irritability, and fear.
Common Side Effects of Buspirone
Buspirone may cause several common side effects, which a patient should be aware of:
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Nervousness or excitement
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
Important Considerations for Buspirone
It is important to note that buspirone is not a fast-acting medication; it can take two to four weeks of consistent use to notice improvements in anxiety symptoms. A healthcare provider will typically start a patient on a low dose and increase it gradually over several days. Patients should also avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase the concentration of buspirone in the body and lead to more side effects.
Penicillin V Potassium 250 mg
Another medication that has been manufactured as a white, round, scored tablet with an 'E 84' imprint is Penicillin V Potassium 250 mg. This is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections and is not effective against viral illnesses like the common cold or flu.
How Penicillin V Potassium Works
As a penicillin-class antibiotic, this drug works by killing the bacteria causing an infection. It is commonly prescribed for mild to moderately severe infections, including:
- Respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and strep throat
- Scarlet fever
- Middle ear infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Infections of the gums and mouth
Common Side Effects of Penicillin V Potassium
Side effects can vary, but some common ones include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions like hives, rash, and itching
- Black, hairy tongue
Allergic Reactions to Penicillin
It is crucial to inform your doctor about any history of penicillin allergy before taking this medication, as severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can occur, which require immediate medical attention. Signs of a severe allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hoarseness, and swelling of the throat, tongue, or lips.
Comparison of the 'E 84' Medications
This table summarizes the key differences between the two potential medications with the 'E 84' imprint:
| Feature | Buspirone Hydrochloride (Anxiety) | Penicillin V Potassium (Antibiotic) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Treatment of anxiety disorders | Treatment of bacterial infections |
| Active Ingredient | Buspirone Hydrochloride 10 mg | Penicillin V Potassium 250 mg |
| Drug Class | Miscellaneous anxiolytics | Natural penicillins |
| Controlled Substance? | No | No |
| Onset of Action | Gradual (2-4 weeks) | Relatively rapid for infections |
| Common Side Effects | Dizziness, headache, nausea | Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting |
| Special Caution | Avoid grapefruit; takes time to work | Allergies, not for viral infections |
How to Safely Identify an 'E 84' Pill
Because the same imprint can belong to different medications, relying solely on the pill's appearance can be misleading. To ensure safety, follow these steps:
- Do not assume: Never assume a pill's identity based on markings alone. A different strength or inactive ingredients can also be relevant.
- Consult a professional: The safest and most reliable way to identify an unknown pill is to consult with a pharmacist or healthcare provider. They have access to comprehensive databases and can help you identify the medication based on its markings, shape, and color.
- Check your prescription: If you or a family member has a current prescription, compare the pill to the information on the prescription label. The pharmacy's record will confirm what medication was dispensed.
- Use a pill identifier tool: Use an online pill identification tool provided by a reputable source, like Drugs.com, by entering all the identifying information, such as the imprint code, shape, and color. However, always confirm this information with a professional.
Conclusion
The imprint 'E 84' on a white, round pill can correspond to either buspirone hydrochloride or penicillin V potassium, two very different medications used for completely different purposes. Buspirone is an anti-anxiety drug, while penicillin is an antibiotic. It is crucial for anyone finding an unidentified pill to consult with a healthcare professional to confirm its identity and purpose. Mixing up these medications could result in ineffective treatment for an infection or unnecessary anxiety treatment. Patient safety is paramount, and proper identification is the first step toward responsible medication use.
For more detailed information on prescription medications, you can visit the National Library of Medicine's DailyMed website.
