Understanding Xanax (Alprazolam)
Alprazolam, most commonly known by the brand name Xanax, is a prescription medication belonging to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is primarily prescribed for the short-term management of anxiety disorders and panic disorder. Alprazolam works by enhancing the effects of a natural chemical in the body known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which slows down brain activity to produce a calming effect. Due to its potential for abuse, misuse, and addiction, Xanax is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance. It is available in various shapes, colors, and strengths, which can be identified by the unique imprints on the pill.
So, What Number is the Blue Xanax Pill?
There isn't a single number for the blue Xanax pill. The imprint code varies depending on the manufacturer and the strength. Blue Xanax typically comes in different strengths, often identifiable by these imprints.
Common Blue Xanax Imprints
- B707: This imprint is found on a light blue, rectangular pill, often called a 'bar'. It contains alprazolam and is manufactured by Breckenridge Pharmaceutical. The bar is scored with three lines, allowing it to be broken into segments.
- XANAX 1.0: The brand-name Xanax manufactured by Pfizer is an oval, blue pill with this imprint. It contains alprazolam. These are often nicknamed 'blue footballs' due to their shape.
- G 3721: This is a blue, oval-shaped pill with an imprint of 'G 3721'. It is a generic form of alprazolam and is manufactured by Greenstone LLC.
- 031 R: This imprint identifies a round, blue pill containing alprazolam. It is manufactured by Actavis.
- B706: A light blue, oval pill with 'B706' debossed on the side contains alprazolam and is also made by Breckenridge Pharmaceutical.
Comparison of Common Blue Xanax Pills
| Imprint | Shape | Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|
| B707 | Rectangular ('Bar') | Breckenridge Pharmaceutical |
| XANAX 1.0 | Oval ('Football') | Pfizer |
| G 3721 | Oval | Greenstone LLC |
| 031 R | Round | Actavis |
| B706 | Oval | Breckenridge Pharmaceutical |
The Pharmacology of Alprazolam
Alprazolam is a short-acting benzodiazepine. After oral administration, it is readily absorbed, with peak concentrations in the blood occurring within one to two hours. The drug works by binding to GABA-A receptors in the brain, which increases the inhibitory effect of GABA. This action leads to a decrease in neuronal excitement, resulting in sedation, muscle relaxation, and reduced anxiety. The mean plasma elimination half-life of alprazolam is about 11.2 hours in healthy adults. It is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by the enzyme cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), and its metabolites are excreted in the urine.
The Dangers of Counterfeit Pills
It is extremely dangerous to purchase Xanax from any source other than a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription. The illicit drug market is flooded with counterfeit pills that are visually similar to authentic alprazolam but often contain dangerous substances.
Risks Associated with Fake Xanax
- Fentanyl Lacing: A significant danger is the presence of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that is cheap to produce. A lethal quantity of fentanyl can be very small, and many counterfeit pills contain dangerous amounts. Combining benzodiazepines with opioids dramatically increases the risk of respiratory depression, coma, and death.
- Unknown Strengths: Counterfeit pills are manufactured without quality control, leading to inconsistent and unpredictable amounts of the active ingredient. A single pill might contain no active ingredient, a much higher quantity than expected, or a different substance entirely.
- Harmful Ingredients: Fake pills have been found to contain a range of hazardous substances, including other illicit benzodiazepines, stimulants, and even heavy metals.
Authentic pills have specific characteristics: uniform color, a non-crumbly texture, and clear, precise imprints. Any pill with blurry markings, inconsistent color, or a rough texture should be considered suspicious.
Conclusion
The number on a blue Xanax pill is an important identifier that indicates its manufacturer and strength, with common imprints including 'B707' (rectangular), 'XANAX 1.0' (oval), and 'G 3721' (oval). While alprazolam is an effective medication for anxiety and panic disorders when used as prescribed, it carries significant risks of dependence and addiction. The prevalence of counterfeit pills, often containing dangerous quantities of fentanyl, makes it critical to only use medication obtained from a legitimate pharmacy with a doctor's prescription. If you suspect a pill is fake, do not consume it.
For more information on prescription drug safety, you can visit the FDA's website.
