Pill identification is important for medication safety, allowing individuals to confirm the authenticity and purpose of their medications. Many medications share similar appearances, making accurate identification challenging yet necessary to prevent errors. Understanding the markings, shapes, and colors of pills helps ensure the correct medication is taken in the appropriate dosage. Misidentifying a pill can lead to serious health consequences, emphasizing the importance of reliable information.
What “IP 115” Identifies
The imprint “IP 115” on a pill identifies a combination medication containing Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate. It contains 325 milligrams (mg) of acetaminophen and 7.5 mg of hydrocodone bitartrate. Acetaminophen functions as a pain reliever and fever reducer, while hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic, meaning it alters how the brain perceives pain.
This medication is a white, oblong, or capsule-shaped tablet. It is scored on one side, allowing it to be broken in half, and debossed with “IP 115” on the opposite side. Its typical size is approximately 15 millimeters. This imprint code is associated with manufacturers such as Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC or AvKare, Inc. This medication is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its hydrocodone content, indicating a high potential for abuse and dependence.
Purpose and Common Dosage
The medication “IP 115” manages severe pain requiring an opioid analgesic when other treatments are insufficient. Acetaminophen works mainly in the central nervous system to reduce pain and fever. Its exact mechanism is complex, but it is believed to involve the inhibition of certain cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the brain.
Hydrocodone, as an opioid, binds to specific opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This interaction changes how the body responds to pain, providing a strong analgesic effect. For adults, a common dosage for this combination medication is one tablet every four to six hours as needed for pain. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage and follow a healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
Potential Side Effects and Warnings
The Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone combination has side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, and drowsiness. These effects are often related to the hydrocodone component.
A major warning is the potential for liver damage from acetaminophen, especially with overdose or chronic high-dose use. Symptoms of liver injury include pain in the upper right abdomen, loss of appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. The hydrocodone component also poses risks, including respiratory depression (a dangerous slowing of breathing), and a high potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it significantly increases the risk of liver damage.
Ensuring Safe Use and Next Steps
To ensure safe medication use, it is important to verify the pill’s identity. Reputable online pill identifiers, often found on pharmacy websites, can assist in this process by matching imprints, colors, and shapes. However, these tools should not replace professional medical advice.
Never consume a pill that you cannot positively identify or that was not prescribed to you. If there is any doubt about a medication, its purpose, or its dosage, consult a healthcare professional. Pharmacists are good resources for pill identification and can provide guidance regarding medication safety and interactions. For any concerns or questions about a specific medication, particularly if it causes unexpected reactions or was not directly provided by a healthcare provider, seek immediate medical advice.