Pill Identifier for Web

Service summary

Pill Identifier from Drugs.com is a free online tool that helps you recognize medications by appearance or by name. Its image-based catalog includes prescription and over-the-counter products as well as both brand-name and generic formulations. By matching a physical description to photographs, the app can quickly narrow down possibilities for an unknown tablet or capsule.

Using the identifier

Enter one to three visual details to find matching images and records. The app accepts partial information, so you don’t need every field filled to get useful results.

• Shape (tablet, capsule, round, oval, etc.)
• Color (single color or multi-colored)
• Imprint (letters, numbers, or symbols printed on either face)

If a pill has markings on both sides, list those imprints separated by an asterisk (for example: AB12*34). The color and shape selections are chosen from dropdown menus. After the search returns matches, click any photo to open a full product record.

Coverage, sources, and what you’ll see

The database covers more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, generics, and natural products. Information is compiled from established clinical references, including IBM Watson Micromedex, Cerner Multum, and ASHP, to help ensure reliable descriptions.

Search results include photos and a detailed summary showing typical uses, common side effects, and known drug interactions so you can confirm whether the item and dose appear correct.

When it’s most useful and its limits

This tool is designed to support identification without immediate access to a clinician—helpful if you find an unidentified pill, suspect you took the wrong medicine, or need to confirm a dosage. It’s particularly valuable for people managing multiple prescriptions.

Keep in mind it does not identify liquid formulations such as syrups. If any doubt remains after using the app, consult a pharmacist or other healthcare professional before taking the medication.

Suggested alternative tool: i‑Ready (free).