What pill is RP-10?: Identifying this Opioid Medication

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified the RP 10 pill, an opioid pain medication containing 10 mg of oxycodone, as a drug with a high potential for abuse. Knowing what pill is RP-10 is critical for understanding its medical uses for severe pain and the serious risks associated with its misuse or illicit use.

Quick Summary

The RP 10 pill is Oxycodone Hydrochloride 10 mg, used for managing moderate to severe pain. It is a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for abuse, addiction, and misuse. A related version, RP 10 325, also includes acetaminophen. Both medications carry significant risks, including life-threatening respiratory depression.

Key Points

• Oxycodone 10 mg: The RP-10 pill is a 10 mg dose of oxycodone hydrochloride, a potent opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain.

• High Abuse Potential: Due to its opioid nature, the RP-10 pill is a Schedule II controlled substance with a high risk for addiction, abuse, and misuse.

• Counterfeit Danger: Counterfeit pills bearing the 'RP 10' imprint have been found to contain fentanyl, a highly dangerous and potentially lethal substance.

• Respiratory Depression Risk: One of the most severe risks is life-threatening respiratory depression, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol.

• RP 10 vs. RP 10 325: A distinct version, the RP 10 325 pill, combines oxycodone with acetaminophen, adding the risk of liver damage from excessive acetaminophen.

• Common Side Effects: The medication commonly causes constipation, nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.

• Withdrawal Management: To prevent withdrawal symptoms, discontinuation of the medication should be managed with a gradual tapering plan under medical supervision.

What is the RP-10 pill?

The RP-10 pill is a prescription medication containing oxycodone hydrochloride 10 mg. Manufactured by Rhodes Pharmaceuticals, this white, round tablet is imprinted with "R P" and a score on one side and "10" on the other. Oxycodone is a potent opioid analgesic prescribed for moderate to severe pain and is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence.

The Pharmacology of Oxycodone

Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that works by binding to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), altering pain perception. Its pain-relieving effects typically occur within 15-30 minutes, peaking in 1-2 hours and lasting 4-6 hours.

Medical uses and administration

The RP-10 pill is prescribed for pain management when other treatments are insufficient, including chronic pain, back pain, and pain from injury or surgery. It should be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. The lowest effective dose for the shortest duration is recommended due to dependence risks. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal, requiring a gradual tapering schedule.

Understanding the risks: Addiction, overdose, and side effects

The RP-10 pill carries significant risks, highlighted in a boxed warning on its prescribing information.

Risk of addiction and abuse

Addiction is a serious risk, even when used as prescribed, and is higher in individuals with a history of substance abuse or mental illness. Secure storage is essential to prevent diversion.

Overdose and respiratory depression

Oxycodone overdose can cause fatal respiratory depression, especially when combined with CNS depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines. Naloxone can reverse an overdose.

Common side effects

Common side effects include constipation, nausea, dizziness, and headache.

RP 10 vs. RP 10 325

The RP 10 325 pill differs from the RP-10 by including 325 mg of acetaminophen in addition to 10 mg of oxycodone.

Feature	RP 10 Pill	RP 10 325 Pill
Active Ingredients	Oxycodone Hydrochloride 10 mg	Oxycodone Hydrochloride 10 mg and Acetaminophen 325 mg
Drug Class	Opioid analgesic	Narcotic analgesic combination
Appearance	White, round, 7mm tablet	White, round, 10mm tablet
Additional Risks	No additional risks beyond opioid use	Risk of acetaminophen-related liver damage in high doses

The acetaminophen in RP 10 325 adds the risk of liver toxicity with high doses.

Counterfeit medication and safety precautions

Counterfeit "RP 10" pills containing lethal amounts of fentanyl have been reported by the DEA. Obtain medication only from licensed pharmacies.

Safety precautions include:

• Using only as prescribed.
• Avoiding combination with depressants.
• Storing securely.
• Disposing of properly.

Conclusion

The RP-10 pill (oxycodone 10 mg) is a potent opioid for severe pain but carries significant risks of addiction, overdose, and misuse. The RP 10 325 version adds acetaminophen. Due to the opioid crisis and counterfeit risks, use with extreme caution, follow prescriptions strictly, and discuss concerns with a healthcare provider.

Sources

• DEA.gov - Counterfeit Controlled Prescription Drug Availability in Pennsylvania and Delaware
• Drugs.com - R P 10 Pill White Round 7mm
• DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov - OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE tablet
• StillDetox.com - RP 10 325 pill
• StillDetox.com - Difference Between RP 10 White Pill and RP 10 325 Pills
• Drugs.com - Oxycodone: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
• National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov) - Definition of oxycodone/acetaminophen
• MedlinePlus.gov - Oxycodone: MedlinePlus Drug Information
• Mayo Clinic - Oxycodone and acetaminophen (oral route)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RP-10 pill prescribed for?

The RP-10 pill is prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain, including chronic pain, back pain, and pain resulting from injury or surgery, particularly when other non-opioid treatments are inadequate.

Is the RP-10 pill a strong medication?

Yes, the RP-10 pill contains 10 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride, a powerful opioid analgesic. It is considered a potent medication and is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA due to its high potential for abuse.

How can I tell the difference between an RP-10 and an RP 10 325 pill?

While both are made by Rhodes Pharmaceuticals and contain oxycodone, the RP-10 pill is a white, round tablet with only 'R P' and '10' on it. The RP 10 325 pill is a white, round tablet imprinted with 'RP 10 325' and also contains acetaminophen.

What are the most dangerous risks of taking the RP-10 pill?

The most dangerous risks include addiction, overdose, and life-threatening respiratory depression, which is intensified when the medication is combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants. There is also a risk from counterfeit versions containing fentanyl.

Can I drink alcohol while taking the RP-10 pill?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking the RP-10 pill. Combining opioids with alcohol can lead to profound sedation, severe respiratory depression, coma, and death.

What should I do if I think I have a counterfeit RP-10 pill?

If you suspect you have a counterfeit pill, do not take it. Dispose of it safely and immediately seek medical advice from a healthcare provider. Always obtain your medication from a licensed pharmacy to ensure safety.

How long does the RP-10 pill provide pain relief?

The pain-relieving effects of the RP-10 pill typically last for about 4 to 6 hours. However, individual patient factors and tolerance levels can affect the duration of its effects.