Found a purple round pill and not sure what it is? Purple (or deep blue-violet) round tablets are less common than other colors, which makes the imprint code especially helpful for identification. Below are the most commonly encountered purple round pills in the United States.
Most Common Purple Round Pills
Alprazolam 1 mg
Generic (some manufacturers)
Benzodiazepine for anxiety and panic disorder. Schedule IV controlled substance.
Some generic versions are blue-purple; varies by manufacturer
Eszopiclone 2 mg
Generic / Lunesta
Non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic for insomnia. Schedule IV controlled substance.
Purple can be tricky to classify — some tablets appear blue-purple or violet depending on the light. Look for the imprint on both faces of the tablet and record it precisely. Enter the code with "purple" and "round" in PillID. If results don't appear, also try "blue" and "round" since the line between these colors varies in pill databases.
Some purple round tablets are controlled substances. Verify the source of any pill before use. For poison emergencies, call 1-800-222-1222.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a purple round pill?
Purple round tablets include some alprazolam 1mg generics, eszopiclone (Lunesta) 2mg, some amphetamine salts generics, and methotrexate 2.5mg. The imprint is the only reliable identifier.
How do I identify a purple round pill without an imprint?
All U.S. prescription tablets require a unique imprint. A purple round pill without an imprint is likely an OTC supplement. For emergencies, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
What is the small purple round pill for sleep?
Eszopiclone (Lunesta) 2mg is a small, distinctive blue-purple round tablet — one of the more recognizable purple round pills. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance prescribed for insomnia and requires a valid prescription.