Tramadol is a synthetic opioid-like analgesic prescribed for the management of moderate to moderately severe pain. It acts on the central nervous system to alter how the body perceives and responds to pain signals. Tramadol is manufactured by numerous pharmaceutical companies in both brand-name and generic forms. The physical appearance of the tablets and capsules—including their shape, color, and size—varies significantly depending on the manufacturer, dosage strength, and specific formulation. Understanding these visual differences is a practical first step in identification, but it is not a substitute for definitive verification.
Identifying Features of Immediate-Release Tablets
Immediate-release (IR) tramadol tablets are the most common formulation, designed for rapid absorption and quick pain relief. They are typically found in lower dosage strengths, with 50 milligrams being frequently dispensed. The appearance of these 50 mg generic tablets is highly diverse, often appearing in white, off-white, or yellow colors.
The shapes most commonly produced for immediate-release tramadol are round, oval, or a slightly elongated capsule shape. The original brand-name version, Ultram, is a white, capsule-shaped tablet imprinted with “ULTRAM” on one side and a code like “06 59” on the other. Generic manufacturers often mimic or vary this standard appearance. For instance, a common generic 50 mg tablet may be white and round with the imprint “AN 627”.
Other 50 mg variations include a white oval tablet imprinted with “93 58,” or a yellow oblong tablet marked with “355 U.” While color sometimes corresponds to a specific manufacturer’s dosage grouping, this is not a universal rule. Higher immediate-release strengths (75 mg or 100 mg) are also available. They generally follow the same shape and color tendencies as the 50 mg tablets, but their slightly larger size indicates the increased dosage.
Variations in Extended-Release and Combination Forms
Extended-release (ER) tramadol formulations are distinct from IR versions because they are engineered to provide pain relief over a longer period, typically 12 or 24 hours. This controlled-release mechanism requires a different tablet structure, often resulting in a visually larger pill compared to a standard IR tablet. ER tablets, which come in strengths like 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg, are frequently greater to accommodate the specialized matrix material.
ER tablets are often round or oval and commonly white or off-white, though some versions may be colored. For example, a 100 mg ER tablet might be white and circular with the imprint “L010,” while a 200 mg version may be a white, round tablet marked “PAR 822.” The tablet’s coating or internal matrix contains polymers designed to slow the drug’s release. Due to this structural design, ER tablets must be swallowed whole to maintain their time-release function and should never be crushed or split.
Another distinct type is the combination product, most commonly tramadol paired with acetaminophen (e.g., Ultracet or generics). The addition of acetaminophen contributes to a wider spectrum of colors and shapes than seen in pure tramadol products. These combination tablets are typically oblong or capsule-shaped. Colors can range from white, yellow, orange, or beige, depending on the inactive ingredients and dyes used. A common 37.5 mg tramadol/325 mg acetaminophen tablet may be orange and capsule-shaped, imprinted with “083” on one side.
Importance of Imprint Codes and Verification
While color and shape provide initial visual clues, they are not sufficient for positive identification due to the vast number of generic versions available. The only definitive way to confirm a tablet’s identity, dosage, and manufacturer is through the unique alphanumeric imprint code embossed on its surface. This code is required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all prescription and over-the-counter solid oral medications.
The imprint code, combined with the pill’s color and shape, creates a unique identifier that can be cross-referenced against official databases. Using a pill identifier tool from a reliable resource, such as the National Library of Medicine or a poison control center, is the most accurate verification method. Entering the exact code, color, and shape into these databases yields an official match, confirming the drug and its strength. If a tablet lacks an imprint code or cannot be positively identified, it should not be consumed, and a pharmacist or physician should be consulted immediately.