If your pill looks different than last time, do not panic, but do check with your pharmacy.
The most common reason a pill looks different is that the pharmacy used a different manufacturer. Generic medications can be made by multiple companies, and each company may use a different color, shape, size, or imprint.
The active ingredient should be the same, but the appearance can vary. Pharmacies may change manufacturers because of availability, insurance pricing, supplier changes, or medication shortages.
That said, you should always verify unexpected changes. If your pill looks different, ask the pharmacy before taking it. The pharmacist can confirm the medication, strength, manufacturer, and imprint.
This is especially important if the bottle label looks different, the directions changed, the pill count seems unusual, or the medication does not match what you expected.
Bottom line: Pills often look different because of manufacturer changes, especially with generics. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist to verify before taking it.
