Naproxen is a widely used medication for pain relief and inflammation, available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Identifying medications correctly is important for safety, as taking the wrong pill can lead to unintended side effects or ineffective treatment.
General Appearance of Naproxen
Naproxen pills commonly appear as tablets or caplets. Tablets are solid and compressed, while caplets are smooth, elongated, and coated, resembling a capsule. Common shapes include oval, round, and oblong.
The colors of naproxen pills vary, with white, blue, and yellow frequently seen. Some tablets are a solid color, while others have specks or are two-toned. Pill size generally corresponds to its dosage, with higher strengths often being larger.
Variations by Dosage and Manufacturer
The appearance of naproxen differs based on its specific dosage and manufacturer. Naproxen is available in strengths like 220 mg, 250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg, and 550 mg. These dosages often correlate with distinct colors, shapes, or sizes. For example, 220 mg naproxen sodium (like Aleve) is often blue and oval or round. Other strengths, such as 250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg, and 550 mg, come in various colors (white, yellow, pink, orange) and shapes (round, oval, oblong, capsule-shaped) depending on the manufacturer.
A primary aspect for identifying pills precisely is the imprint code, which consists of numbers, letters, or symbols stamped onto the pill’s surface. Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to have an imprint code. This unique combination of the imprint, along with the pill’s shape, color, and size, helps distinguish one medication from another, even if they share similar general appearances. Brand-name Aleve, for example, has “ALEVE” imprinted on its blue, oval, or round tablets, while generic naproxen will have different imprints depending on the manufacturer.
Safe Identification Practices
If you encounter an unidentified pill, avoid taking it. Taking an unknown medication carries risks, including potential adverse reactions or drug interactions. Reliable resources are available to help identify pills safely.
Online pill identifiers, often provided by reputable pharmacies or medical websites, allow you to input details such as the pill’s color, shape, and any imprint codes to find a match. However, visual identification alone is not foolproof. For definitive identification, consulting a pharmacist or doctor is the most recommended approach. These healthcare professionals have access to comprehensive databases and expertise to accurately identify medications and provide appropriate guidance.