What are the differences between blue and white lorazepam?

The differences between blue and white formulations of lorazepam generally lie in the manufacturer, specifications and dosage, excipient composition, appearance markings, and suitability for specific applications. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Manufacturer: Blue lorazepam is typically produced by specific manufacturers, and differences in manufacturing processes and quality control standards may exist among various producers. White lorazepam may come from another or multiple different manufacturers, leading to variations in packaging and details on the product information leaflet.

2. Specifications and Dosage: The blue formulation may correspond to a specific dosage, such as 0.5 mg per tablet; the white formulation might be another dosage, such as 1 mg per tablet. Different dosages directly affect the amount of medication taken each time, so the appropriate colored formulation should be selected according to medical instructions.

3. Excipient Composition: Both colored formulations contain lorazepam as the active ingredient, but their excipients differ. The blue tablets may contain blue dye and specific fillers, whereas the white ones either lack dyes or contain white fillers. Differences in excipients may lead to varied reactions in certain individuals—for example, those sensitive to particular dyes should avoid formulations containing such coloring agents.

4. Appearance Markings: The surface of blue tablets may be imprinted with abbreviations of the manufacturer's name, dosage numbers, or other identifying marks, with the color and markings together facilitating differentiation. Markings on white tablets may differ, or they may only be distinguishable from blue tablets by shape or score lines. These visual differences help users quickly identify the required specification.

5. Suitability for Specific Applications: If a doctor prescribes a 0.5 mg dose based on the patient’s condition, the blue formulation can be taken directly. For a required 1 mg dose, the white formulation is more suitable, eliminating the need to split tablets and thereby reducing dosage errors. Different colors correspond to different strengths, meeting varying dosage requirements.

When using lorazepam, confirm the dosage strength associated with the tablet color and strictly follow medical instructions. Do not interchange different colored formulations arbitrarily; consult your doctor before switching. Always verify the appearance and markings before taking the medication—do not consume if any abnormalities are detected, and contact a pharmacist or physician immediately.