The identification of a substance by a simple alphanumeric code like 'M104' can lead to significant confusion due to the existence of multiple entities with similar designations. When searching for what is the drug m104, it's crucial to consider the context to avoid misidentification. The primary medical interpretations involve a pill imprint for Memantine and an investigational cancer treatment, but the term also points to a non-pharmaceutical chemical compound.
The Pill Imprint: M 104 (Memantine Hydrochloride)
In one of the most common medical interpretations, the 'M 104' imprint on a round, white pill signifies Memantine Hydrochloride at a 10 mg dose. This medication is primarily used to treat the symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease.
How Memantine Works
Memantine is classified as a miscellaneous central nervous system (CNS) agent. It is an NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonist, which means it helps regulate the activity of glutamate, a chemical messenger in the brain. By blocking certain receptors, it can improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and the ability to perform daily tasks, for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It is not a cure for the disease but can help manage its symptoms.
Key Considerations
- Prescription-only: Memantine is available only with a prescription.
- Not a controlled substance: The medication is not classified as a controlled substance.
- Dosage: The 10 mg dosage corresponding to the 'M 104' imprint is one of several available strengths.
The Investigational Drug: IMM-1-104 (MEK Inhibitor)
In the field of oncology, IMM-1-104 is a completely different substance currently under clinical investigation by Immuneering Corporation. It is not yet an approved drug and is being studied as a potential treatment for specific types of cancer.
Targeting RAS-Mutated Tumors
IMM-1-104 is an oral, selective dual-MEK inhibitor. It works by targeting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, a critical signaling cascade often mutated or overactive in many cancers, particularly those with a RAS mutation. The drug's mechanism is known as "Deep Cyclic Inhibition," which aims to inhibit the MAPK pathway in cancer cells for a period of time, while sparing healthy cells from prolonged inhibition.
Clinical Trial Status
As of recent reports, IMM-1-104 is being evaluated in a Phase 1/2a clinical trial for patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors that harbor a RAS mutation, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), melanoma, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
The Chemical Catalyst: Grubbs Catalyst® M104
Beyond medicine, the designation M104 can also refer to a non-pharmaceutical chemical compound. Grubbs Catalyst® M104 is a homogeneous catalyst used in organic chemistry for alkene metathesis, a type of chemical reaction. This application is completely unrelated to human pharmacology and is used in industrial and laboratory settings.
Why the Context is Important
- Industry vs. Medicine: The use of "M104" to identify an industrial catalyst highlights the importance of context. Without additional information, it's impossible to determine the substance's purpose.
- Avoiding Confusion: For medical professionals, distinguishing a pharmaceutical grade substance from a lab-grade chemical is critical for safety and proper treatment.
Distinguishing Between the 'M104' Meanings
To help clarify the various meanings of the term, the following table compares the three main interpretations.
| Feature | Pill Imprint 'M 104' | Investigational Drug 'IMM-1-104' | Chemical Catalyst 'M104' |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Memantine Hydrochloride 10 mg | MEK Inhibitor IMM-1-104 | Grubbs Catalyst® M104 |
| Use | Treats moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease | Investigated for treating RAS-mutated cancers | Used for alkene metathesis in chemical synthesis |
| Status | FDA-approved medication | Investigational; in clinical trials | Commercial chemical product |
| Form | White, round tablet | Oral, once-daily dosage | Powder |
| Manufacturer | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | Immuneering Corporation | Umicore |
Important Takeaways for Patients and Caregivers
- Verify with Imprints: Always verify medications using pill identifiers that match the imprint, color, and shape exactly.
- Never Self-diagnose: Do not assume a pill's identity based on a partial or similar-sounding code. Consult a healthcare professional to confirm any medication.
- Stay Informed: Awareness of the different applications of similar-sounding terms can prevent critical misunderstandings regarding medications or other substances.
Conclusion
In summary, the term "m104" is not a definitive drug name, but rather a descriptor that can point to several very different substances. The most common medical reference is the pill imprint for Memantine Hydrochloride, an Alzheimer's treatment. However, in oncology, IMM-1-104 is a promising investigational drug for specific cancers. For accurate information, it is critical to use precise search terms and, if dealing with a medical matter, always consult a healthcare provider or a reliable pill identifier resource, such as the one available from Drugs.com.
