Common Yellow Narcotic Pills and How to Identify Them
When trying to identify a yellow pill, it is essential to look beyond the color. The imprint code—the specific text or logo stamped on the pill—is the most reliable identifier. Several different narcotic medications, all classified as Schedule II controlled substances, can appear as yellow pills, each with a different formulation and risk profile.
Yellow Oxycodone and Acetaminophen Combinations
This class of pain relievers, once exclusively sold as Percocet, is now widely available in generic form. A yellow color can indicate a particular formulation.
- Percocet (Generic): A common example is a yellow, round tablet with the imprint 'C 230'. This pill contains oxycodone and acetaminophen. It is manufactured by Alvogen and is used to treat moderate to severe pain.
- Endocet/Roxicet (Generic): Another generic version of oxycodone and acetaminophen might be a yellow, round tablet with the imprints 'RP' over '10 325'. This is also a combination formulation.
Yellow Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen Combinations
Similarly, generic versions of hydrocodone and acetaminophen are available in various forms and colors, including yellow.
- Lortab (Generic): A specific yellow, oblong, and scored tablet with the imprint 'V' over '36 01' is a formulation of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. This is used for moderate to severe pain.
Other Yellow Narcotic Tablets
Other powerful narcotics can also come in a yellow tablet form, often in specific release formulations.
- Oxycodone (Extended-Release): A round, yellow tablet with the imprint 'OP 40' is a formulation of extended-release oxycodone. This is a long-acting pain medication with a high risk of abuse.
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid): A round, yellow pill with the imprint 'P 4' is Dilaudid. This powerful opioid is used for managing severe pain and has a high potential for abuse.
The Critical Dangers of Visual Identification
Identifying a pill solely based on its color and shape is extremely dangerous. The increasing prevalence of counterfeit pills in the illicit drug market makes visual identification unreliable and potentially lethal.
The Risk of Fentanyl Contamination
According to the DEA, as much as 75% of seized counterfeit pills in some analyses contained fentanyl. This synthetic opioid is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, and a very small amount can be fatal. Unidentified or illicitly obtained yellow pills are high-risk candidates for fentanyl contamination, and accidental ingestion can easily lead to a deadly overdose.
The Need for Proper Use
Even if a pill is a legitimate prescription medication, taking it without medical supervision can be hazardous. The use of narcotics is precisely determined by a healthcare provider. Misidentification could lead to taking an incorrect medication, causing severe side effects, respiratory depression, or overdose.
Safe and Reliable Pill Identification
To protect yourself and others, always follow proper procedures for identifying medications. Here are the steps recommended by medical professionals:
- Check the Imprint Code: Every FDA-approved tablet or capsule must have a unique imprint code (letters, numbers, or symbols). This is the most crucial piece of information for identification.
- Use an Official Database: Reputable online resources, such as Drugs.com or WebMD's pill identifier, allow you to search for a medication using the imprint, color, and shape. Always verify the pill image shown matches exactly what you have.
- Consult a Pharmacist: A licensed pharmacist can help identify a pill by referencing official medication records. This is a safe and reliable option for sorting out misplaced or mixed medications.
- Contact Poison Control: For emergencies or if you suspect an overdose, call 911 or the Poison Control Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.
- Never Take Unprescribed Medication: Do not take any pill you cannot positively identify and confirm its source. Dispose of all expired, unused, or unidentified medication safely through a local drug take-back program.
Comparison of Common Yellow Narcotic Tablets
| Characteristic | Acetaminophen & Oxycodone (Generic) | Acetaminophen & Hydrocodone (Generic) | Oxycodone Extended-Release (Generic) | Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common Imprints | 'C 230', 'RP 10 325' | 'V 36 01' | 'OP 40' | 'P 4' |
| Shape | Round or Oval | Oval or Oblong | Round | Round |
| Drug Class | Narcotic Analgesic Combination | Narcotic Analgesic Combination | Opioid (Narcotic Analgesic) | Opioid (Narcotic Analgesic) |
| Controlled Substance | Schedule II | Schedule II | Schedule II | Schedule II |
| Uses | Moderate to severe pain | Moderate to severe pain, cough | Chronic Pain | Severe Pain, Cough |
Conclusion
While a variety of prescribed narcotic painkillers, including versions of Percocet and Lortab, can be yellow, relying on color alone for identification is extremely dangerous. Accurate identification must rely on the pill's unique imprint code in combination with its color, shape, and size, using reliable resources like Drugs.com or a pharmacist. The severe risks associated with misidentification, especially the possibility of encountering lethal counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, underscore the importance of never ingesting an unprescribed or unidentified medication. Adhering to safe medication practices is crucial for preventing accidental overdose and protecting one's health.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have possession of an unidentified pill, do not take it. For safe and reliable information, always consult a medical professional or use an official pill identifier.
