Millions of people rely on prescription medications to reduce pain. People may take pain relievers containing opioids like OxyContin to manage moderate to severe pain. Opioids like OxyContin have a high risk of abuse and addiction.
Being able to identify opioid medications is essential to recognizing abuse and addiction. This article will outline the physical characteristics of the white M523 pill. You will learn:
- What an M523 pill is and how to identify it
- The effects and risks of oxycodone abuse
- How to recognize and treat opioid addiction
- Where to find opioid addiction treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with opioid addiction, you are not alone. Find evidence-based treatment and compassionate support at Archstone Recovery. Contact our addiction specialists to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is the White M523 Pill?
The M523 white pill is a form of a prescription medication. It contains a combination of acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) and oxycodone. It is a white, oval-shaped pill imprinted with “M523” on one side. The pill has a score line down the center, allowing users to break the tablet in half easily.
Doctors may prescribe an M523 pill to help patients manage several types of pain, including:
- Pain after surgery
- Chronic pain
- Dental pain
- Arthritis
- Pain during cancer treatment
The opioid content of the M523 pill puts users at increased risk of unwanted side effects and addiction. Oxycodone is a controlled substance with a high potential for misuse and physical dependence.
People taking opioids, including the M523 pill, must follow their doctor’s advice. It is critical to be aware of the risk for abuse and addiction. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of a problem.
Understanding the Effects and Risks of Oxycodone Abuse
Oxycodone is an addictive opioid analgesic drug. It interferes with pain signals that occur between the brain and the body. It also activates the body’s natural pain management system while suppressing the sensation of pain.
Oxycodone is the active ingredient in several prescription medications, including:
- Xtampza ER
- OxyContin
- Oxyfast
- Oxaydo
Oxycodone and other opioids have the potential for abuse and addiction. Doctors may prescribe medications containing oxycodone for short-term pain relief only. This can reduce the risk of abuse and addiction.
The M523 pill is a prescription medication. It contains acetaminophen and oxycodone. This combination acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer.
The oxycodone binds to opioid receptors, which suppresses the central nervous system (CNS). People may take this medication every few hours as needed for pain, as prescribed by their doctor.
In addition to providing pain relief, oxycodone may also cause other side effects. Common side effects of oxycodone include:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Mood changes
- Itching
- Sweating
People may also experience pleasurable side effects, including euphoria or relaxation. These pleasant effects may lead to misuse. Oxycodone misuse includes:
- Taking a higher dose than prescribed
- Taking doses more often than prescribed
- Taking a medication longer than prescribed
- Ingesting the drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Taking oxycodone without a prescription
Opioid abuse can quickly turn into physical dependence and addiction. It can be very challenging to overcome opioid addiction.
Opioid abuse also puts people at risk of a life-threatening overdose. It is essential to seek treatment for opioid abuse and addiction as soon as you recognize the signs of a problem.
Recognizing the Signs of Opioid Addiction
Opioid addiction can quickly become life-threatening. Recognizing oxycodone abuse is the first step in treating it.
Some signs of oxycodone addiction include:
- Running out of prescription opioids early
- Taking opioids differently than prescribed
- Exhibiting poor judgment
- Legal, financial, or social problems related to opioid use
- Having multiple prescriptions for opioids
- Stealing oxycodone or money
- Falling behind at work, school, or with responsibilities at home
- Lying or being secretive about oxycodone use
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking opioids
Prescription opioid abuse can turn into physical dependence quickly. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of oxycodone abuse or addiction.
Treating Opioid Addiction
Oxycodone addiction impacts a person’s health and emotional well-being. It can also affect a person’s ability to work, relationships, and other parts of their life. Over time, heavy opioid use can change the way a person’s brain and body work. These changes make it nearly impossible for people to quit taking these drugs without professional help.
Comprehensive opioid addiction treatment programs use a combination of evidence-based therapies. This comprehensive treatment can help people leave opioid abuse in the past.
Opioid abuse treatment plans may include:
- Assessments and diagnostic testing
- Medical detox programs to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Individual counseling
- Support groups
- Family counseling
- Behavioral therapies
- Holistic therapies, like nutrition support, exercise, and mindfulness
- Relapse prevention education
- Aftercare planning
Many people receive inpatient detox care before transferring to an outpatient treatment program.
Contact the Archstone Recovery specialists to learn more about our alcohol and substance abuse treatment programs. You can also reach out to ask questions or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- Daily Med: oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablet
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Oxycodone
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Oxycodone
