How to Look Up a Pill by Picture

Taking medications on time is crucial for their effectiveness and safety. One of the most important steps in ensuring you're taking your medicines correctly is identifying the pills accurately. However, it's not always easy, especially if you're unsure what pill you have or if it's a new medication. In this article, we'll explore how to look up a pill by picture using online tools and other methods.

Setting Reminders and Organizing Pills

To start with, remember to take your medicines at certain times by setting reminders in your phone, watch, or alarm clock. This will help you develop a routine and ensure you don't forget to take your pills. You can also use pill organizers, like medicine kits or pill boxes, to organize your pills by day and time.

Identifying Pills Using Online Tools

If you're unsure about a pill's identity, there are several online tools that can help. Pill identifier tools allow you to search for pills using their imprint code, shape, color, and other features. These tools use databases of FDA-approved pills, including prescription and over-the-counter, generic and brand-name pills.

Using Imprint Codes

Imprint codes are unique codes printed on one side of a pill, which can include numbers and letters or even the drug name or logo. You can look for differences in color, shape, size, patterns, or markings to identify a pill. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires all pills to have a unique appearance, making it easier to identify them.

Searching with Pictures

If you're unable to find an imprint code or are unsure what pill you have, searching with pictures can be helpful. You can use online pill identifier tools that show pictures of different pills based on your search criteria. These tools may also allow you to search by shape and color alone.

What if the Tool Doesn't Show Results?

If a tool doesn't show any results after searching for an imprint code or using pictures, there are a few things you can try. First, double-check the imprint code to ensure it's correct. If you're still unable to identify the pill, it may not be an FDA-approved medicine.

Identifying pills accurately is crucial for their effectiveness and safety. By setting reminders, organizing your pills, and using online tools or searching with pictures, you can confidently identify unknown pills and take them correctly. Remember to always follow your doctor's directions and never take a pill if you're unsure what it is. If you're having trouble identifying a certain pill, don't hesitate to talk with a pharmacist for assistance.

Pill look up by picture