What is a Pill Marked K18?

There is an opioid use crisis in the United States. New prescription and illicit opioids have fueled this deadly epidemic for decades.

Understanding opioid abuse and addiction can help people seek treatment to overcome it. Knowing the signs of opioid abuse and recognizing these drugs is essential. This knowledge can give you the confidence to get help if you or a loved one needs it.

This article will provide information on the K-18 pill, which is a form of prescription opioid pain medication.

If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Alamo Behavioral Health offers comprehensive, compassionate substance abuse treatment programs. Contact our intake specialists to explore your treatment options or to schedule an initial assessment.

What is the K-18 Pill?

The K-18 pill is a tablet containing 5 mg of oxycodone. It is a small, white, round pill marked “K-18.”

Oxycodone is an opioid medication used to provide pain relief. Doctors may prescribe oxycodone to help patients manage moderate to severe pain. People may take it for short periods to manage pain after medical procedures, injuries, or other conditions.

Oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance. This means it has an accepted medical use and a risk of addiction. In addition to the pain-relieving effects, users may experience euphoria while taking oxycodone.

People may like the effects of the K18 pill and begin to abuse it. Oxycodone abuse includes:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Taking it more often than prescribed
• Using oxycodone longer than prescribed
• Ingesting it differently, such as snorting it
• Using oxycodone recreationally (without a prescription)

Abusing the K18 pill increases the risk of dangerous adverse effects. People may develop serious, long-term health problems, including addiction and physical dependence. Opioid abuse can also cause a life-threatening overdose.

People who abuse oxycodone must seek treatment as soon as they recognize the signs of a problem. Contact Alamo Behavioral Health to learn more about opioid abuse and addiction or to explore our treatment programs.

The Effects and Risks of K18 Pill (Oxycodone) Abuse

Oxycodone is a potent opioid pain reliever sold under brand names including:

• OxyContin
• Oxyfast
• Xtampza ER
• Oxaydo

Common side effects of oxycodone include:

• Drowsiness
• Flushed skin
• Constricted pupils
• Itching
• Excessive sweating
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Mood swings
• Abdominal pain

Abusing oxycodone increases the risk of adverse side effects. People who abuse oxycodone may take large doses, putting them at risk of overdose. Some signs of an overdose include:

• Respiratory depression (slow, shallow, or stopped breathing)
• Clammy or cool skin
• Seizures
• Extreme drowsiness
• Loss of consciousness
• Slurred speech
• Bluish skin, lips, or fingernails

Prolonged opioid use can lead to tolerance (when the body adjusts to a substance and requires more to get the effects) and addiction. Long-term opioid use and addiction can harm the body by suppressing the immune system. It can also impair cognitive (brain and spinal cord) functioning.

It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of opioid addiction. It can be challenging to overcome this complex condition, but having the right treatment and support makes it possible.

Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our treatment and recovery support programs. You may also reach out with questions or schedule an intake appointment.

Alamo Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

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Recognizing Oxycodone Addiction

Opioid abuse and addiction can change a person’s appearance, thoughts, behaviors, and mood. Recognizing the signs of opioid addiction can help you seek treatment for yourself or a loved one.

Signs of oxycodone addiction include:

• Running out of prescription oxycodone earlier than expected
• Buying illicit oxycodone or stealing it
• Doctor shopping (having more than one prescription for oxycodone)
• Using oxycodone differently than prescribed
• Developing tolerance to oxycodone
• Doing risky things while under the influence of oxycodone, such as driving
• Spending a lot of time, energy, or money to get and use more oxycodone
• Having cravings for oxycodone or other opioids
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop using opioids
• Using oxycodone recreationally (without a prescription)

Anyone may abuse or become addicted to the K18 pill. This can occur even without a history of substance abuse or other risk factors. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of opioid abuse. Early treatment can help people overcome opioid use disorder and move forward.

What to Expect in Opioid Addiction Treatment

It can be challenging to overcome opioid addiction. Most people require comprehensive treatment programs to address the psychological, behavioral, and physical aspects of opioid abuse.

Opioid detox and treatment programs may include:

• Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety during detox
• Assessments, screenings, and diagnostic testing
• Behavioral therapies and counseling
• Group and family therapy
• Psychoeducation
• Holistic therapies like mindfulness, exercise, nutrition support, and animal therapy
• Aftercare planning

People may attend inpatient or residential treatment during detox and stabilization. After completing this level of care, people can transition into an outpatient level of care.

Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment. Don’t wait for another day to start your recovery journey. Take the first step by contacting us now.

References:

1. Daily Med: Oxycodone Hydrochloride tablet
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Oxycodone
3. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Oxycodone