Omeprazole is a widely prescribed medication used to manage conditions caused by excessive stomach acid, such as heartburn, acid reflux, and ulcers. Understanding its typical appearance can help individuals correctly identify their medication. This article aims to provide a clear description of what omeprazole pills generally look like.
Common Forms and Features
Omeprazole is most frequently a delayed-release capsule, though it also comes in tablet forms. Capsules often feature two distinct colors, such as blue and orange, blue and white, or pink and dark red, and are typically oblong or capsule-shaped. These capsules usually contain tiny, enteric-coated pellets that protect the medication from stomach acid until it reaches the small intestine. Capsule size can vary.
Tablets are generally smaller and can be round or oval. Many omeprazole pills, both capsules and tablets, feature imprints of letters and numbers that indicate the strength or manufacturer. For example, a 20 mg delayed-release capsule might have “XI 20” imprinted on it, while a 40 mg capsule could show “G G232”.
How Appearance Varies by Strength and Manufacturer
Omeprazole pill characteristics, including color, size, and imprints, differ based on dosage strength and manufacturer. For instance, a 20 mg capsule might be white, while a 40 mg capsule from a different manufacturer could be brown or purple and orange.
Different pharmaceutical companies produce generic versions of omeprazole. Each manufacturer uses distinct dyes, molds, and imprinting codes, leading to a wide range of appearances. For example, one 20mg capsule might be pink with an “APO 020” imprint, while another could be blue with “G231 G”. Even within the same manufacturer, capsule size and color can change over time for the same strength.
Confirming Your Medication
Always cross-reference your omeprazole medication with the description from your pharmacist or on the prescription packaging. This ensures you have received the correct drug and dosage. The label details should match the pill’s color, shape, and any imprints.
If you are uncertain about your omeprazole pill’s appearance or if it does not match what you expect, consult a pharmacist or doctor immediately. Taking incorrect medication can have serious health implications. Pill identifier tools can also be helpful resources for visual confirmation.