The term "m4 drugs" most commonly refers to a specific prescription medication identified by the imprint '4 M' (or sometimes searched as 'M4') found on its surface. This particular pill is a combination of Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate.
What is the Drug Identified by the Imprint 'M4' or '4 M'?
The drug commonly identified by the imprint '4 M' (which is often searched as 'm4' due to the way imprints are read) is a combination pain reliever containing Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate.
This medication is prescribed to alleviate moderate to moderately severe pain.
Key Characteristics of the '4 M' Pill
Based on the provided reference, here are the specific details of the drug:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate |
| Strength | 300 mg / 60 mg |
| Imprint | 4 M |
| Color | White |
| Shape | Round |
Understanding Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate
- Acetaminophen (300 mg): This is a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer. It works by altering the way the body perceives pain and by cooling the body. It is the active ingredient in common over-the-counter medications like Tylenol.
- Codeine Phosphate (60 mg): This is an opioid pain reliever. Codeine works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. It is also an antitussive, meaning it can suppress coughs, though its primary use in this combination is for pain. Due to its opioid nature, Codeine has a potential for dependence and misuse.
Uses of Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate
This combination medication is primarily used for:
- Pain Relief: Effective for managing moderate to moderately severe pain that is not adequately relieved by non-opioid medications alone.
- It is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States due to the presence of Codeine, indicating its potential for abuse and physical or psychological dependence.
Important Considerations
When encountering an unknown pill, it's crucial to:
- Identify Safely: Always consult a medical professional or a reliable drug identification database to confirm the identity of any pill. Never ingest an unknown medication.
- Prescription Only: Medications containing Codeine are prescription-only and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Storage and Handling: Store all medications securely, out of reach of children and pets, and dispose of them properly when no longer needed.
