Pill imprints like “123” serve as critical identifiers for medications, helping pharmacists, doctors, and patients distinguish between drugs with similar appearances. These markings, mandated by the FDA for most prescription and OTC tablets in the US (except those under 1/16 inch or scored), typically include letters, numbers, or symbols from manufacturers. A “123 pill” can refer to multiple medications depending on shape, color, and region, as imprints aren’t unique globally.
Common Identifications of “123” Pills
Several pharmaceuticals carry the “123” imprint, each with distinct uses: –
- Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride 25 mg: A white, oval or capsule-shaped antihistamine pill (often round or oblong). Used for allergy relief, motion sickness, insomnia, and cold symptoms by blocking histamine receptors.
- Medixone (Generic Antibiotic): Described as a broad-spectrum antibiotic tablet for bacterial infections like respiratory, skin, urinary tract, and STIs. It inhibits bacterial growth, aiding the immune system, but not effective against viruses.
- Fol 123 Capsule: A soft gelatin nutritional supplement combining folate (folic acid), vitamin B6, and B12. Treats deficiencies causing anemia, neuropathy, seizures, and high homocysteine; supports pregnancy, brain development, and cholesterol management.
- 1-2-3 Cold Tablet: A combination of chlorpheniramine (antihistamine), paracetamol (acetaminophen for pain/fever), and pseudoephedrine (decongestant). Targets cold, allergy, hay fever, rhinitis, headaches, and sinus issues.
| Pill Type | Active Ingredients | Primary Uses | Form/Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diphenhydramine | Diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg | Allergies, sleep aid, colds | OTC tablet/capsule |
| Medixone Antibiotic | Medixone (antibiotic) | Bacterial infections (UTI, skin, respiratory) | Prescription |
| Fol 123 | Folic acid, B6, B12 | Vitamin deficiencies, anemia, neuropathy | OTC supplement |
| 1-2-3 Cold | Chlorpheniramine, Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine | Colds, allergies, congestion | OTC in some regions |
How to Identify a Pill Safely To confirm a “123 pill,” check color, shape, and size via FDA resources or apps like WebMD Pill Identifier—never guess, as mismatches can be dangerous. Imprints like “123” alone aren’t standardized internationally.
Usage Guidelines and Risks
Antibiotics like Medixone require prescriptions to prevent resistance; complete the course despite symptom relief. Supplements like Fol 123 aid nutrition but excess B vitamins can cause nausea or nerve issues. Cold combos risk drowsiness (from antihistamines) or blood pressure spikes (pseudoephedrine).
Common side effects across types: nausea, diarrhea, headaches, or rare allergies—seek immediate care for rash, swelling, or breathing issues.
Never self-medicate** based on imprints alone; interactions with conditions (e.g., pregnancy, glaucoma) or drugs vary. Dispose of unknowns safely via take-back programs.