The Importance of Accurate Pill Identification
Properly identifying any medication is a critical aspect of patient safety. With potent prescription drugs like methadone, a synthetic opioid, this is even more important due to the high potential for abuse and the risk of overdose associated with incorrect dosing or accidental ingestion. A single pill can have vastly different effects if its dosage or active ingredient is misidentified. While this article provides descriptive information, it is never a substitute for consulting a pharmacist or using a verified pill identification tool with a healthcare professional.
Common Features of a 10 mg Methadone Pill
Despite variations among manufacturers, most 10 mg methadone tablets share some common characteristics. They are typically white or off-white and can be either round or a modified rectangular shape. Crucially, they are imprinted with a specific combination of letters and numbers that serve as a unique identifier. These imprints are the most reliable method for confirming the identity of the pill. Brand-name versions may also have their name or abbreviation imprinted on the tablet.
Variations in Appearance by Manufacturer
Because multiple pharmaceutical companies produce generic and brand-name methadone, there is no single uniform appearance for a 10 mg pill. The differences in shape and imprint are the primary distinguishing factors. The following section details some of the most common versions based on manufacturer:
Generic 10 mg Methadone (Examples)
- Mallinckrodt: This manufacturer produces a rectangular, white 10 mg methadone tablet with the imprint M 57 71.
- Roxane Laboratories (now part of Hikma): Roxane has produced a round, white 10 mg tablet with the imprint 54 142. Another imprint from this line is 54 24.
- Hikma: In addition to the legacy Roxane tablets, Hikma also produces a round, white tablet with the imprint ASC 116.
- VistaPharm: This company manufactures a round, white 10 mg tablet with the imprint N 128.
- Endo Pharmaceuticals: A round, white 10 mg tablet with the imprint E 131 is produced by Endo.
Brand-Name 10 mg Methadone
- Methadose (Mallinckrodt): This brand-name tablet is a round, white pill with the imprint METHADOSE 10.
- Dolophine (Legacy): An older brand-name version, the 10 mg Dolophine tablet, was round and white with the imprint 54 549.
Factors Influencing Pill Appearance
While the active ingredient, methadone hydrochloride, is consistent across all 10 mg tablets, the inactive ingredients can differ. These fillers, binders, and coloring agents are what determine the final size, shape, and color of the pill. Manufacturers use these variations in conjunction with unique imprints to ensure their product is distinct and traceable. Understanding this is key to accepting that there is no one-size-fits-all description for a 10 mg methadone pill.
How to Safely Identify an Unfamiliar Pill
If you encounter a pill and need to confirm its identity, following a safe protocol is essential. Never ingest a pill you cannot definitively identify. If you are unsure, follow these steps:
- Use an official pill identifier: Reputable drug websites often have databases where you can input the imprint code, color, and shape to get a match.
- Consult a pharmacist: Your pharmacist can use the pill's appearance and any identifying marks to confirm its identity and manufacturer.
- Cross-reference with your prescription: Ensure the identified pill matches the description on your prescription bottle. If there is a discrepancy, do not take it.
- Do not assume: Never assume that a pill is methadone just because it resembles a description you have read or seen online. Always verify through official channels.
Comparison of Common 10 mg Methadone Pills
| Manufacturer | Imprint | Shape | Color | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mallinckrodt | M 57 71 | Rectangular | White | Scored tablet |
| Roxane/Hikma | 54 142 | Round | White | Scored tablet |
| Hikma | ASC 116 | Round | White | Scored tablet |
| VistaPharm | N 128 | Round | White | Scored tablet |
| Endo | E 131 | Round | White | Generic tablet |
| Mallinckrodt (Methadose) | METHADOSE 10 | Round | White | Brand-name tablet |
Conclusion
Identifying a 10 mg methadone pill requires attention to detail, as its appearance can vary between manufacturers. While many are white and either round or rectangular, the imprint code is the most reliable way to confirm its identity. For safety, always cross-reference the pill with a trusted database or, even better, a healthcare professional, especially given methadone's potency and controlled substance status. Never risk taking a pill whose identity you are not certain of, and always prioritize professional guidance over visual approximation.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for all medical concerns.
