Why Multiple Pills Can Have the Same Numbers
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that most prescription and over-the-counter pills have a unique imprint, which can include letters, numbers, logos, or a combination thereof. However, the same number can be used in different combinations, leading to several distinct medications having "404" as part of their imprint code. It is the unique combination of the imprint, shape, and color that allows for a definitive identification.
The Most Common Medications with '404' Imprints
Based on reliable drug databases, several medications commonly bear an imprint that includes the number '404'. Identifying the pill requires knowing the other markings and its physical appearance.
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E 404 (Orange, Round): This is a 30 mg tablet of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, the generic version of Adderall. It is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. As a Schedule II controlled substance, it carries a high potential for misuse and addiction.
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ADG 404 (White, Round): A 6 mg tablet of carbinoxamine maleate, this pill is an antihistamine. It is used to treat allergy symptoms such as seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, and other allergic reactions. This medication is not a controlled substance.
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Lifestar 404 (Brown/Gray, Capsule): This is a 100 mg capsule of nitrofurantoin monohydrate/macrocrystals, an antibiotic. It is specifically used to treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria.
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404 Logo (White, Capsule/Oblong): This is a 0.375 mg extended-release tablet of hyoscyamine sulfate. It belongs to the anticholinergics/antispasmodics drug class and is used for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, and neurogenic bladder.
Other Variations of the '404' Imprint
Other, less common variations of the '404' imprint also exist, further complicating identification.
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44 404 (Pink, Round): A chewable tablet of meclizine hydrochloride 25 mg, an antihistamine used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
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N 404 (Blue, Round): A 6 mg tablet of dexamethasone, a corticosteroid used to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions and allergies.
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404 SEMPREX-D (Green/White, Capsule): Contains acrivastine and pseudoephedrine, a combination antihistamine and decongestant used for seasonal allergies.
Comparison of Pills with '404' Imprints
| Imprint | Active Ingredient | Drug Class | Color | Shape | Common Uses | Controlled Substance? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E 404 | Amphetamine & Dextroamphetamine | CNS Stimulant | Orange | Round | ADHD, Narcolepsy | Yes (Schedule II) |
| ADG 404 | Carbinoxamine Maleate | Antihistamine | White | Round | Allergies, Allergic Rhinitis | No |
| Lifestar 404 | Nitrofurantoin (M/M) | Urinary Anti-Infective | Brown/Gray | Capsule/Oblong | Urinary Tract Infections | No |
| 404 Logo | Hyoscyamine Sulfate ER | Anticholinergic | White | Capsule/Oblong | Irritable Bowel Syndrome | No |
| N 404 | Dexamethasone | Glucocorticoid | Blue | Round | Inflammation, Allergies | No |
| 44 404 | Meclizine HCl | Antihistamine | Pink | Round, Chewable | Motion Sickness | No |
The Critical Importance of Correct Identification
Finding an unmarked or improperly identified pill is a serious matter. Never take a medication that has not been specifically prescribed to you or that you cannot positively identify. The danger lies in the vast difference in a pill's function and the potential for serious interactions or side effects.
For example, accidentally taking a stimulant like amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (E 404) could have life-threatening consequences for someone with a heart condition, especially if combined with other medications. Similarly, taking an antibiotic like nitrofurantoin when it is not needed can contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
If you find an unidentified pill, the safest course of action is to:
- Do not consume it.
- Contact your pharmacist, who can help identify medications based on physical appearance and other details.
- Check for any matching pill bottle from your household that might contain a missing tablet.
- If there's any concern about an overdose or poisoning, call emergency services immediately.
Conclusion
The number "404" alone is not a sufficient identifier for a pill. The code is used on different drugs, including a powerful stimulant (E 404), several antihistamines (ADG 404, 44 404), an antibiotic (Lifestar 404), and other medications. Always use a trusted pill identifier tool or consult a healthcare professional to confirm a medication based on its complete imprint, color, and shape. This careful approach helps ensure patient safety and prevents potentially dangerous health outcomes associated with medication errors. For more information on identifying and understanding prescription drugs, refer to reliable medical resources like Drugs.com.
