The imprint 'M-15' can refer to several different medications, ranging from potent Schedule II opioids to central nervous system stimulants. Accurate identification requires considering the pill's physical characteristics, such as color and shape, in addition to the imprint. Relying solely on the 'M-15' imprint for identification is unsafe due to the significant variations in drug class and associated risks.
Potential Identities of the M-15 Pill
The 'M-15' imprint can be found on several medications, including:
M 15 (Green, Round) - Oxycodone Hydrochloride
This medication is a green, round tablet with 'M 15' imprinted on it. It contains 15 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride, a Schedule II opioid analgesic used for moderate-to-severe pain. It is manufactured by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. Oxycodone carries a high risk of abuse and addiction, which can lead to fatal overdose.
M 15 (White, Eight-sided) - Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine
A white, eight-sided tablet with the 'M 15' imprint contains 15 mg of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. This is a generic version of Adderall, a Schedule II central nervous system stimulant used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Like oxycodone, it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
M 15 (White, Round) - Morphine Sulfate
Another opioid with an 'M 15' imprint is morphine sulfate, found in a white, round tablet. These tablets, sometimes scored and debossed with 'M 15', contain 15 mg of morphine sulfate. Morphine is a Schedule II opioid analgesic prescribed for moderate to severe pain. It poses a high risk of addiction, abuse, and potentially life-threatening respiratory depression.
Other, Less Common M-15 Pills
Other medications may also have similar markings:
- Northyx (Methimazole) 15 mg: A white, round pill with 'M15' (no space) used for hyperthyroidism. It is not a controlled substance.
- Atropine/Diphenoxylate 0.025 mg / 2.5 mg: A white, round pill with 'M 15', a Schedule V controlled substance for diarrhea.
- Potassium Chloride Extended-Release 15 mEq: A white, oval pill with 'M 15' for low potassium, not a controlled substance.
The Dangers of Incorrect Pill Identification
Misidentifying a pill with the M-15 imprint can have severe consequences, including fatal overdose from opioids or dangerous interactions with other medications. The significant differences in drug classes and their effects emphasize the need for caution and accurate identification.
Comparison of Key M-15 Medications
| Feature | Oxycodone (M 15) | Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (M 15) | Morphine Sulfate (M 15) | Northyx (M15) | Atropine/Diphenoxylate (M 15) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Green, round | White, eight-sided | White, round | White, round | White, round |
| Active Ingredient | Oxycodone Hydrochloride | Amphetamine, Dextroamphetamine | Morphine Sulfate | Methimazole | Atropine, Diphenoxylate |
| Drug Class | Opioid analgesic | CNS Stimulant | Opioid analgesic | Antithyroid agent | Antidiarrheal |
| Primary Use | Severe pain | ADHD, Narcolepsy | Severe pain | Hyperthyroidism | Diarrhea |
| Controlled Status | Schedule II | Schedule II | Schedule II | Not Controlled | Schedule V |
How to Safely Identify an Unknown Pill
If you find an unknown M-15 pill, follow these steps for safe identification:
- Avoid ingestion. Never take a pill you cannot definitively identify.
- Use reliable resources. Utilize a pill identifier tool that allows you to search by imprint, color, and shape.
- Consult a professional. A pharmacist or doctor can provide accurate identification using professional databases.
- Proper disposal. Use drug take-back programs to safely dispose of unknown or unused medications.
Conclusion
The M-15 imprint serves as a critical example of why relying solely on visual cues for pill identification is dangerous. With this marking appearing on various medications, including high-risk Schedule II controlled substances, accurate identification based on physical characteristics and professional consultation is paramount for safe medication use and to prevent potentially life-threatening errors.
