Zolpidem, known by brand names like Ambien, Edluar, or Zolpimist, is a prescription medication primarily used for short-term insomnia. It helps individuals initiate or maintain sleep. Understanding Zolpidem pill characteristics is important for proper identification. This article provides a detailed visual guide to distinguish different forms of Zolpidem tablets.
Common Visual Features
Zolpidem tablets share general physical characteristics, regardless of dosage or manufacturer. They commonly appear as round or oval shapes. Colors typically range from white or off-white, though some formulations may be pink. Average sizes vary, but these tablets are generally small. These features provide a foundational understanding, but variations exist across dosages and manufacturers.
Dosage and Release Type Differences
Zolpidem pill appearance varies significantly by dosage and release type (immediate-release (IR) versus extended-release (ER)). Immediate-release Zolpidem tablets are commonly available in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths. For instance, brand-name Ambien 5 mg tablets are typically pink and capsule-shaped, while 10 mg tablets are white and also capsule-shaped. Generic immediate-release 5 mg tablets can be pink and round or oblong, while 10 mg tablets are frequently white and may be round or oval.
Extended-release Zolpidem (Ambien CR) uses a dual-layer system for biphasic release, aiding both sleep onset and maintenance. Ambien CR 6.25 mg tablets are typically pink and round, while 12.5 mg tablets are blue and round. Generic extended-release forms also come in these strengths and can vary in color and shape, with some 12.5 mg ER tablets appearing yellow or blue and round.
Manufacturer Specifics and Imprints
Generic Zolpidem is produced by numerous manufacturers, each with unique visual characteristics, especially specific imprint codes. These alphanumeric codes are debossed or imprinted directly onto the tablet surface, serving as the most reliable identification method. For example, a 10 mg white, round Zolpidem tablet from Teva Pharmaceuticals may be imprinted with “TEVA 74,” while another 10 mg white, oval tablet might have “E 79” imprinted.
Variations in color, shape, and size occur among different generic manufacturers, even for the same dosage. For instance, a 5 mg pink, capsule-shaped tablet might have “6468 V” imprinted, while another 5 mg pink, round tablet could show “IT 117.” The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires most prescription and over-the-counter medications to have an imprint code. Checking the specific imprint, alongside color and shape, helps precisely identify the manufacturer and dosage.
How to Confirm Identification
Several reliable methods confirm a Zolpidem pill’s identity, emphasizing user safety. Online pill identifier tools are a practical first step. These tools allow users to input details like the pill’s imprint code, color, and shape to match it with images and drug information. Websites such as RxList, Drugs.com, and WebMD offer comprehensive identification databases.
Consulting a pharmacist is the most reliable identification method. Pharmacists have access to extensive drug databases and can accurately identify medications based on physical attributes, including the imprint code. If the pill originated from a prescription, checking the original prescription bottle provides the most accurate information. Always avoid consuming any pill that cannot be positively identified.