Identifying the S142 Pill: A Complex Task
The imprint on a pill is a crucial piece of information for identification, yet a search for an exact 'S142' imprint does not yield a specific match in common drug databases. Instead, this query is likely the result of a misread or partial imprint. It's common for pill identification queries to require a combination of factors, including the imprint code, color, and shape, to accurately find the correct medication. Some of the most likely candidates based on similar imprints are extended-release versions of Bupropion Hydrochloride and Metformin Hydrochloride.
Potential Drug Match: Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (XL) 300 mg
A white, oval, 17mm tablet with the imprint '142' is identified as Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (XL) 300 mg. This drug belongs to a class of miscellaneous antidepressants and is also a smoking cessation agent.
Uses and Indications
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): It works by affecting the brain's levels of norepinephrine and dopamine to help improve mood.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Prescribed to prevent depressive episodes that occur during the colder, darker months.
- Smoking Cessation: Marketed under the brand name Zyban, it helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Common Side Effects
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Headache
- Agitation or restlessness
Important Considerations
- Risk of seizure is a significant consideration, especially with higher dosages.
- Bupropion carries a boxed warning about the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young adults.
- Patients should not take other bupropion-containing products concurrently.
Potential Drug Match: Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release 500 mg
A white, capsule/oblong tablet with the imprint '142' is also identified as Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release 500 mg. This is a widely used oral medication for managing type 2 diabetes.
Uses and Indications
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: It helps control high blood sugar by decreasing glucose production in the liver and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Sometimes used off-label to manage symptoms associated with insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Headache
Important Considerations
- Lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition, is a risk, particularly for those with kidney or liver issues.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency can result from long-term use.
- May affect the menstrual cycle in women, potentially increasing fertility.
Comparison of Potential '142' Imprint Medications
| Feature | Bupropion Hydrochloride ER 300 mg | Metformin Hydrochloride ER 500 mg |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Miscellaneous Antidepressant / Smoking Cessation Agent | Biguanide (Diabetes Medication) |
| Common Imprint | '142' on a white, oval, 17mm tablet | '142' on a white, capsule/oblong, 16mm tablet |
| Primary Uses | MDD, SAD, Smoking Cessation | Type 2 Diabetes, PCOS |
| Mechanism of Action | Affects dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain | Decreases liver glucose production, increases insulin sensitivity |
| Common Side Effects | Dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, headache, agitation | Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain |
| Serious Side Effects | Seizures, suicidal ideation | Lactic acidosis, vitamin B12 deficiency |
| Associated Risks | Neuropsychiatric reactions, hypertension | Kidney or liver disease complications |
Correct Identification is Paramount
As the table clearly illustrates, different medications can have very similar or even identical imprints. Therefore, confirming a pill's identity is not a trivial matter and should never be based solely on a single marking. In a medical setting, the pharmacist's dispensed information, including the drug name, dosage, and a full description, is used for accurate verification. For the general public, using reliable, comprehensive pill identifiers that require matching all physical characteristics (shape, color, and imprints) is essential. However, the safest and most reliable method is to contact a healthcare professional or pharmacist who can correctly identify the medication based on the original prescription details.
Conclusion
The query regarding the 'S142' pill highlights the common challenge of medication identification based on limited information. While an exact 'S142' imprint does not correspond to a recognized drug, potential matches based on similar codes like '142' point toward medications such as Bupropion Hydrochloride and Metformin Hydrochloride. These drugs have vastly different purposes, treating conditions ranging from depression and smoking cessation to type 2 diabetes. This disparity underscores the danger of misidentification and the critical need for a comprehensive approach using physical characteristics. The best course of action is always to consult a medical professional for correct identification and guidance, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.
