An imprint code, composed of numbers or letters printed onto a pill, helps identify its contents as well as differentiating among higher and lower dosages of similar medications made by one company.
Pill is typically defined as an oral dosage form of medication; however, the term can also apply to chewable or orally dissolving tablets.
What are pills?
Pills are solid forms of medication created by compressing powdered ingredients together into a solid mass that can be swallowed and broken down in the digestive system to release its active ingredients. Pills may be round or oblong-shaped; some even feature an easy split/cut mechanism within its middle (score).
Most prescription and over-the-counter pills come with an imprint code to identify them from one another and to distinguish them. This typically consists of letters, numbers or marks which include information such as drug name, manufacturer and other details – these codes can then be used by The Pill Identifier to find matching results.
Remember only to take the prescription-suggested pills. Also, when splitting tablets, be wary about breaking too soon as this could expose its contents to digestive juices too early and cancel out its delayed-release effect.
How do pills work?
Pills work by allowing drug molecules to join with the flow of your blood. This ensures it reaches all cells and tissues throughout your body.
Hormones contained within a pill may also help make periods lighter and more regular, reduce cramps, and stop excessive bleeding; however, taking such pills won’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STDs).
To maximize results from your pill, it is best to take it at the same time and place on the same day each time, aiming at dissolving it as soon as possible in your lower part of the stomach (antrum) — this area absorbs faster.
Monophasic and multiphasic birth control pills offer two options for pregnancy prevention; both contain different levels of hormones in active and inactive pills to mimic hormonal shifts associated with your menstrual cycle. Both options can help to significantly lower pregnancy risks; the one best suited to you depends on your menstrual cycle cycle; your healthcare provider should be able to advise.
How do pills get into my body?
Pills can help make you feel better by fighting off illness, aiding recovery or simply relieving discomfort. But how do they know where to go in your body?
First, pills enter your digestive system. Next, depending on whether they were taken sat up or lying down, they make their way all the way to your liver, which breaks it down further and releases drug molecules into your bloodstream. As these travel through your organs and tissues, all can take advantage of receiving some dose.
Doctors and pharmacists create medicine specifically to interact with receptors located throughout your body – tiny protein molecules that act like locks and keys in which medications fit, helping your body complete what needs to be done – treating ailments such as headaches.
