Understanding the Medication: What Pill is W242?

October 6, 2025 •

3 min read

According to pill identification databases, the imprint on a tablet is a crucial identifier for a specific medication. This is especially important for the prescription drug where the imprint W242 can be found, which indicates a potent pain-relieving combination medication.

Quick Summary

The W242 pill is a prescription medication containing acetaminophen and codeine phosphate, indicated for managing mild to moderately severe pain. As a Schedule III controlled substance, it carries a risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse and requires cautious use under medical supervision.

Key Points

Identification: The W242 pill is a white, round tablet containing acetaminophen and codeine, manufactured by Eywa Pharma Inc..
Indication: It is a prescription pain reliever used for managing mild to moderately severe pain.
Controlled Substance: Due to its codeine content, the medication is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance with potential for addiction and abuse.
Serious Side Effects: The medication carries significant risks, including potentially fatal respiratory depression and severe liver damage from the acetaminophen component.
Strict Dosage: Patients must adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and avoid taking other products containing acetaminophen to prevent liver toxicity.
Cautions: W242 is contraindicated in children under 12, during pregnancy/breastfeeding, and requires extreme caution when taken with other CNS depressants like alcohol.

What is the W242 Pill?

The W242 pill is a small, round, white tablet imprinted with "W242" on one side. It is a combination medication containing acetaminophen and codeine phosphate, prescribed for mild to moderately severe pain when an opioid is necessary. Acetaminophen is a non-opioid pain reliever, while codeine is an opioid analgesic. The W242 imprint is associated with tablets manufactured by Eywa Pharma Inc..

Manufacturer Information and Appearance

The W242 pill is a white, round tablet, typically 12mm in size. It bears the imprint "W242". Relying on credible sources to identify medications by their imprints, shape, and color is important, especially for controlled substances.

Medical Uses

The W242 pill provides pain relief through its two active ingredients. Acetaminophen reduces pain and fever, while codeine works on opioid receptors in the brain to decrease pain perception. This combination is used for pain that is not adequately managed by other treatments. As an opioid-containing medication, its prescription and dispensing are regulated by federal and state laws.

Side Effects and Risks

The W242 pill can cause various side effects, with the risk increasing at higher doses and with longer use.

Common side effects may include:

Drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Dry mouth
Headache

Serious side effects can include:

Respiratory Depression: Codeine can cause dangerously slow breathing, which can be life-threatening.
Liver Damage: Excessive acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage.
Addiction and Abuse: As a Schedule III controlled substance, W242 has a risk of dependence and abuse, potentially leading to overdose.
Serious Skin Reactions: Rare but serious skin reactions can occur with acetaminophen.
Adrenal Insufficiency: Long-term opioid use may affect adrenal gland function.

Dosage and Administration

Dosage is determined by a healthcare provider and should be followed precisely. Do not increase the dose or frequency without consulting a doctor. The medication should be taken as prescribed to manage pain. To avoid liver damage, do not use W242 with other acetaminophen products.

Warnings and Precautions for the W242 Pill

Certain precautions and warnings are associated with the use of W242:

Pediatric Use: It is not for children under 12 or for post-operative pain in certain adolescents due to the risk of breathing problems.
Interactions: Combining W242 with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants can lead to severe sedation, respiratory depression, and death.
Ultra-Rapid Metabolizers: Individuals who rapidly metabolize codeine may have a higher risk of overdose.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Extended use during pregnancy can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal. It is not recommended while breastfeeding as morphine can be passed to the infant.

Pain Reliever Comparison: W242 vs. Other Medications


Feature	W242 (Acetaminophen/Codeine)	OTC NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen)	Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen	Morphine
Active Ingredients	Acetaminophen, Codeine	Ibuprofen or Naproxen	Hydrocodone, Acetaminophen	Morphine
Opioid Component?	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Control Status	Schedule III	Not controlled	Schedule II	Schedule II
Pain Level	Mild to moderately severe	Mild to moderate	Moderate to severe	Severe
Risks	Addiction, respiratory depression, liver damage, sedation	Gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney issues	Addiction, respiratory depression, liver damage, sedation	Addiction, respiratory depression, severe side effects
Availability	Prescription only	Over-the-counter	Prescription only	Prescription only
Manufacturer	Eywa Pharma Inc. (W242)	Multiple	Multiple	Multiple

This table shows how W242 compares to other pain medications, highlighting its controlled substance status and specific risks.

Conclusion

The W242 pill combines acetaminophen and codeine for mild to moderate pain relief. It is a controlled substance with risks including addiction, respiratory depression, and liver damage, requiring careful use under medical supervision. Always consult a healthcare provider and follow instructions precisely for safe use. More detailed information is available from resources like the U.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed.

Frequently Asked Questions

The W242 pill is a prescription medication used to relieve mild to moderately severe pain. It is a combination of acetaminophen and codeine phosphate.

The active ingredients are acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever, and codeine phosphate, an opioid pain reliever.

Yes, because it contains codeine, the W242 pill is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. This means it has a potential for abuse and dependence.

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Individuals with known hypersensitivity to codeine or acetaminophen should not take it. It is also contraindicated for children under 12 and for post-operative pain in certain adolescents due to the risk of life-threatening breathing problems.

Yes, an overdose is possible. Overdosing on the codeine component can cause respiratory depression, while an overdose on acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage. Overdose symptoms include slow breathing, severe sleepiness, and confusion.

Combining W242 with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants can significantly increase the risk of dangerous side effects, including severe drowsiness, respiratory depression, coma, and death.

It is not recommended during pregnancy, as it can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. Breastfeeding is also not recommended, as the medication can pass into breast milk and cause serious adverse effects in the infant.

It should be stored securely and out of sight and reach of children. Safe disposal should be followed for any unused medication, such as using a drug take-back program.