The unique imprint on a pill is the fastest way to identify a medication. This article will identify the medication associated with the “142” imprint, explain its intended medical uses, and describe how it affects the body. Knowing the full details of any prescription is important for safe and effective use.
Identifying the “142” Pill: Physical Characteristics and Active Ingredient
The imprint “142” is overwhelmingly associated with a single, widely prescribed drug used to manage blood sugar. The pill is typically a white, capsule-shaped or oblong tablet, measuring about 16 millimeters in length. This is the extended-release version of the medication, designed to be released slowly into the body over several hours.
The active ingredient is Metformin Hydrochloride, usually at a 500 mg strength. Metformin is one of the most frequently prescribed drugs globally, often serving as the first-line treatment for its primary indication. However, the “142” imprint can also identify a different drug: Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (XL) 300 mg, an antidepressant, when found on a white, oval tablet of 17 millimeters.
Drug Classification and Primary Medical Use
Metformin Hydrochloride belongs to a class of medications known as biguanides, which are used to lower blood glucose levels. This drug is the main first-line medication for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, especially in individuals who are overweight. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from the body’s ineffective use of insulin.
The primary approved use is controlling high blood sugar in patients with Type 2 diabetes, often in conjunction with diet and exercise. Unlike some other diabetes medications, Metformin is generally considered weight-neutral. The drug also has recognized secondary and off-label uses.
One secondary use is treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). For women with PCOS, Metformin is sometimes used to regulate menstrual cycles, improve fertility, and manage symptoms related to insulin resistance. It may also be used as an adjunct treatment to lessen the risk of metabolic syndrome in patients taking certain antipsychotic medications.
Biological Mechanism of Action
Metformin achieves its therapeutic effect through several distinct actions within the body, aimed at reducing overall blood sugar concentration. The drug’s most significant action is decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, a process known as hepatic gluconeogenesis. Inhibiting this internal production reduces the constant supply of sugar entering the bloodstream, particularly overnight and between meals.
A second major action is increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Insulin is the hormone responsible for signaling cells to absorb glucose from the blood. Metformin makes these tissues more responsive to naturally produced insulin, increasing the uptake and utilization of glucose by the cells.
Thirdly, Metformin modestly decreases the absorption of glucose from the gastrointestinal tract following a meal. This contributes to a lower overall glucose load entering the body. These combined physiological actions—reduced liver output, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and decreased intestinal absorption—work together to effectively lower and stabilize blood glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.
Patient Safety Guidelines and Precautions
Patients starting Metformin should be aware of potential side effects, most commonly affecting the gastrointestinal system. These include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and increased flatulence. These symptoms are most common when treatment is initiated or dosage is increased, and they can often be minimized by taking the medication with meals.
A more serious, though rare, adverse effect is lactic acidosis, a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in the blood. This condition is more likely to occur in individuals with severe pre-existing kidney or liver disease, as these organs are involved in clearing the drug and lactate from the body. Symptoms of lactic acidosis require immediate emergency medical attention and can include unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, and extreme weakness.
Metformin use is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney impairment and those with metabolic acidosis. Caution is also advised regarding certain medical procedures; the medication may need to be temporarily stopped before any X-ray or CT scan involving the injection of an iodinated contrast dye. Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided, as alcohol significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis. Patients should always adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare provider with any concerns.