The IP 115 pill is a prescription opioid medication combining hydrocodone bitartrate 7.5 mg and acetaminophen 325 mg, primarily used to manage moderate to severe pain. Manufactured by Amneal Pharmaceuticals as a white, capsule-shaped tablet imprinted with “IP 115,” it requires medical supervision due to its controlled substance status.
Identification and Composition
This pill appears as a white oblong capsule with the marking “IP 115” on one side. Hydrocodone, a semi-synthetic opioid, binds to brain and spinal cord receptors to alter pain perception, while acetaminophen enhances analgesia and reduces fever.
The combination provides synergistic relief superior to either drug alone, but visual identification alone cannot rule out counterfeits, necessitating pharmacy verification.
Medical Uses
Prescribed for short-term relief when non-opioid options fail, common applications include post-surgical recovery, dental procedures, fractures, muscle strains, and acute back pain. It aids recovery by promoting rest and comfort, particularly after injuries or operations.
Mechanism of Action
Hydrocodone acts centrally on mu-opioid receptors to block pain signals, producing euphoria that contributes to abuse potential. Acetaminophen inhibits prostaglandin synthesis peripherally, amplifying hydrocodone’s effects without additional opioid receptor activity.
Regulatory Status and Risks
Classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA, the IP 115 pill has high abuse liability despite legitimate medical uses, prohibiting automatic refills. Long-term use risks physical dependence, addiction, overdose, respiratory depression, and liver damage from acetaminophen accumulation.
| Risk Factor | Description | Mitigation |
|---|---|---|
| Addiction | Opioid tolerance develops quickly | Limit to shortest duration; monitor usage |
| Liver Toxicity | Acetaminophen max daily dose: 4g | Avoid alcohol; check other meds |
| Overdose | Symptoms: slow breathing, coma | Naloxone reversal; seek emergency help |
| Interactions | CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzos) | Strict contraindication |
Side Effects
Common effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, and itching. Serious risks encompass hypotension, adrenal insufficiency, and severe skin reactions like acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. Misuse heightens overdose danger, especially with illicit fentanyl contamination in counterfeits.
Dosage and Administration
Typical adult dose is 1 tablet every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 6 tablets daily to cap acetaminophen at safe levels. Take orally with water; store securely away from children.
Alternatives and Safe
Use Non-opioid options like ibuprofen or physical therapy suit milder pain; for severe cases, safer opioids or multimodal regimens may replace it under guidance. Patients should report usage history to avoid dependence and taper gradually if stopping long-term therapy.