Pill appearance varies greatly depending on the medication. Shape, size, color, and markings all differ. You’ll find capsules, tablets, and caplets.
Capsule Shapes and Sizes
Capsules are usually oblong or cylindrical, ranging from tiny to quite large. Size reflects the amount of medication inside. Colors are diverse – red, white, yellow, and even combinations are common. Some have markings indicating the dosage or manufacturer.
Tablets and Caplets: Distinguishing Features
Tablets are compressed powders, often round or oval but sometimes shaped differently. Caplets are oblong tablets with a slightly curved shape. Colors are similarly varied, and scoring (lines) might indicate a break point for dividing the dose. Many have imprinted logos or numbers for identification.
| Capsule | Oblong, Cylindrical | Variable | Red, White, Yellow, etc. | Dosage, Manufacturer |
| Tablet | Round, Oval, Other | Variable | Red, White, Yellow, etc. | Logos, Numbers |
| Caplet | Oblong, Slightly Curved | Variable | Red, White, Yellow, etc. | Logos, Numbers, Scoring |
Identifying Your Medication
Always verify pill identification using reliable sources like your prescription label or your pharmacist. Never rely solely on visual identification.
Beyond the Basics
Some pills have special coatings for controlled release, affecting their appearance. Extended-release pills may have a different texture or markings. Always read the medication instructions for safe use.
