It is very important to be able to identify unknown medications, especially if you don't have the original containers or packaging that they came in. Sometimes drug companies change a drug's appearance, and you may notice a difference once you get home. You may also mix up your prescription drugs and not know which is which. Knowing identify any unknown medication can be important and even life-saving.
Instructions
1. Ask your pharmacist. Take any unknown medication to your pharmacist and she will be able to identify the medication for you. Most times she will even repackage and label it for you, if you had it originally filled there. Pharmacists are trained to identify all medications, and they have other resources available where they can make a positive identifications of any drug.
2. Ask your doctor. Doctors will be able to identify the drug as well. Even though they don't work with drugs to the extent that pharmacists do, they are still able to identify them. They are also equipped with resources that aid them in identifying your medications. Consulting with your doctor or pharmacist should be your first choice when trying to identify an unknown drug.
3. Go to www.rxlist.com and click on "Pill Identifier." This tab is found at the very top of the page. This tool will allow you to input information about the pill. You can input things about the pill such as the color, shape, or number on the pill. It will also allow you to enter a combination of all of these. The computer will then show you pictures of pills that you can select from. Choose the pill that most resembles your pill and all of its identifying marks. Make sure to look at the shape, color, and number on the pill before making a positive identification. If you aren't absolutely sure, ask a doctor or pharmacist. You should always ask a doctor or pharmacist to just make sure you identified the pill correctly. Never take any medication if you aren't sure what it is used for. It could be very harmful to your health.
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