Decoding Pill Imprints for Safety
Medication safety hinges on accurate identification. Pill imprints are a regulatory requirement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers distinguish between medications. While the number '458' is a key piece of information, it must be combined with other visual characteristics for a definitive match. Never consume an unidentified pill based on a partial description.
Potential Medications with a '458' Imprint
Due to variations in manufacturers and drug compositions, the number '458' can appear on multiple different medications. It is often combined with other letters or numbers that pinpoint the specific drug. Below are some of the most common possibilities identified by pharmaceutical databases:
Phenobarbital 100 mg (WW 458)
If the pill is white, round, and has the markings 'WW 458', it is likely Phenobarbital 100 mg.
- Drug Class: Barbiturate anticonvulsant, sedative.
- Common Uses: Treatment of epilepsy, seizures, and as a sedative.
- Controlled Substance Status: Phenobarbital is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence.
Carbidopa / Levodopa 25 mg / 100 mg (SG 458)
An imprint of 'SG 458' on a yellow, round pill signifies Carbidopa and Levodopa 25 mg / 100 mg.
- Drug Class: Dopaminergic antiparkinsonism agent.
- Common Uses: Manages symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors and stiffness.
- Status: A prescription-only medication.
Loratadine 10 mg (CLARITIN 10 458)
A white, round pill marked 'CLARITIN 10 458' is Claritin 10 mg (loratadine).
- Drug Class: Antihistamine.
- Common Uses: Relieves symptoms of seasonal allergies and hives (urticaria).
- Status: Available over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription.
Fenofibrate 145 mg (Cipla 458)
If the pill is white, oval, and displays the imprint 'Cipla 458', it is Fenofibrate 145 mg.
- Drug Class: Fibric acid derivative.
- Common Uses: Used to lower high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood.
- Status: Prescription-only medication.
Paroxetine Hydrochloride 20 mg (C 458)
A white, capsule-shaped pill with 'C 458' can be Paroxetine Hydrochloride 20 mg.
- Drug Class: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
- Common Uses: Treats anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety, and other conditions.
- Status: Prescription-only medication.
Key Steps for Accurate Pill Identification
Properly identifying an unknown pill is a process that goes beyond simply reading a number. Following these steps can help ensure safety:
- Examine the Full Imprint: Note all numbers and letters on the pill, as they can indicate the manufacturer and specific dosage.
- Consider the Color and Shape: The color and shape are vital clues. For example, a yellow, round 'SG 458' is very different from a white, oval 'Cipla 458'.
- Check the Pill's Size: Use a ruler to measure the pill's dimensions. Size can be another differentiating factor, such as the 10mm round Phenobarbital versus the 8mm round Carbidopa/Levodopa.
- Consult a Professional: The most important step is to consult a pharmacist, doctor, or use a reliable online pill identifier tool that cross-references imprints, colors, and shapes. Never rely on a single characteristic.
Comparison of Medications with '458' Imprints
| Imprint | Drug Name | Therapeutic Class | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| WW 458 | Phenobarbital 100 mg | Barbiturate, Anticonvulsant | Epilepsy, Seizures, Sedation |
| SG 458 | Carbidopa/Levodopa 25/100 mg | Antiparkinsonism agent | Parkinson's Disease |
| CLARITIN 10 458 | Loratadine 10 mg | Antihistamine | Allergies, Urticaria |
| Cipla 458 | Fenofibrate 145 mg | Fibric acid derivative | High Cholesterol, Hypertriglyceridemia |
| C 458 | Paroxetine HCl 20 mg | SSRI Antidepressant | Anxiety, Depression |
The Risks of Self-Diagnosis and Unidentified Pills
Taking a medication without proper identification can lead to severe health consequences. An allergic reaction to an unknown substance or mixing incompatible medications can cause dangerous side effects, overdose, or adverse drug interactions. It is always safest to dispose of unidentified pills and to consult a healthcare professional regarding any medication concerns.
For a reliable pill identification resource, the U.S. National Library of Medicine offers a comprehensive database that is searchable by imprint, color, and shape. This is an excellent tool for preliminary research, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Conclusion
While a pill with 458 on it may initially seem like a clear identifier, it is critical to use additional information like shape, color, and other imprints to make an accurate match. As multiple different medications can bear this number, it's never safe to assume you know what a pill is. Following safe identification practices and consulting with a healthcare professional are essential steps to ensure patient safety and prevent potential drug-related risks. Always prioritize your health and well-being by acting with caution when handling unidentified medication.
