[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]Oxycodone is a strong pain medication that is often used to manage pain. It comes in many different dosages and is sometimes combined with other medications like acetaminophen. These different dosages and active ingredients can affect the way the pill looks, and so can the manufacturer. Manufacturers use unique imprints, colors, and shapes to identify each pill, which helps prevent confusion and misuse.
The pill marked โK18โ is one of these variations. It is small, white, round, and contains 5 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride. This article will help you understand what the K18 pill is and how it works so you can recognize its risks, especially when itโs misused or taken without a prescription.
Fact: In 2023, an estimated 12.6% of people who used oxycodone that year misused it.
What is the White K18 Pill?
White, round pills marked โK18โ are immediate-release oxycodone hydrochloride tablets. They contain 5mg of oxycodone, a powerful opioid medication used for short-term pain management. This medication is typically dosed at 5mg every four to six hours, as needed for pain relief.
Oxycodone is prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain, often after surgery or when managing chronic pain conditions. It provides about the same pain relief as other opioid medications, such as hydrocodone and fentanyl. Unfortunately, among patients treated with prescription opioids for chronic pain, about 3โ12% may develop addiction issues.
Oxycodone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. These receptors are part of the bodyโs central nervous system and play a role in how the body perceives pain.ย
When oxycodone attaches to these receptors, it blocks pain signals from reaching the brain, which helps reduce the feeling of pain. It also triggers the release of dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure and reward, which can create a sense of euphoria. This is one reason why oxycodone can be habit-forming if not taken as prescribed.
However, oxycodone can also be dangerous, as respiratory depression occurs in high doses. High doses can also lead to an overdose.
Only take white K18 pills if they have been prescribed to you by your doctor. Be sure to follow the directions on the label, only taking the medication when you are directed to do so. Misusing oxycodone can lead to the development of physical dependence and addiction.
Fact: In 2022, an estimated 8.7 million people aged 12 and older misused a prescription pain reliever, and about 5.0 million people had a prescription opioid use disorder.
What Does the K18 Pill Look Like?
Oxycodone 5mg often comes in a white round pill. It is scored down the middle, with a line that makes it easy to break in half. On one side of the pill, it is marked โK18,โ with the โKโ to the left of the scored line and โ18โ to the right of it. The other side is blank with a scored line down the middle.
Common Uses for the K18 Pill
The white K18 pill (oxycodone 5 mg) is commonly used for:
- Postoperative pain – to help manage moderate to severe pain after a procedure.
- Injury-related pain – such as from broken bones, sprains, or other trauma.
- Chronic pain conditions – like arthritis, back pain, or nerve pain, when other treatments arenโt enough.
- Severe acute pain – such as after a dental procedure or a painful illness like kidney stones.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Itโs typically prescribed when over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) arenโt strong enough. Because itโs a narcotic, itโs usually meant for short-term use under close supervision.
Side Effects of the K18 Pill (Oxycodone Hydrochloride)
Like all opioids, the K18 pill can cause a range of side effects. Some are mild and others are more serious. These effects can vary depending on the dose, how long you’ve been taking it, and whether it’s being used as prescribed or misused.
Common Side Effects
More common side effects of oxycodone are:
- Abdominal pain
- Severe constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Sweating
- Itching or rash
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]These side effects often subside as people get used to the medication. However, if you take more than prescribed, side effects can worsen.
Adverse Effects
Some people may experience more serious side effects, especially at higher doses or with long-term use. These may include:
- Slowed or shallow breathing
- Confusion or trouble concentrating
- Low blood pressure
- Fainting
- Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety
- Trouble urinating
- Irregular heartbeat
- Seizures (rare)
- Hallucinations (more common with higher doses)
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Never increase your dose of oxycodone or other opioid drugs on your own. Doing so can lead to dangerous consequences, such as an increased risk of overdose and adverse side effects.
Long-Term Risks
Oxycodone can provide almost immediate pain relief, but it can be dangerous when used long-term. Long-term use may lead to dependence and addiction, causing people to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it suddenly.
Other long-term concerns include:
- Increased sensitivity to pain (opioid-induced hyperalgesia)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Chronic constipation or bowel issues
- Risk of overdose, especially if combined with other substances
- Worsening mental health symptoms, including depression and mood swings
- Weakened immune system
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How Long Do the Effects of K18 Pills Last?
The effects of the K18 pill usually last up to six hours. The pill is meant to be taken by mouth, and people begin feeling pain relief as soon as 20-30 minutes after ingesting it. The effects peak after about 1-2 hours, then gradually begin to fade.
In cases of severe pain, the K18 pill may be taken every four hours. When the effects begin wearing off, pain may return. However, itโs important to follow your doctorโs dosing instructions to avoid taking too much.
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Is the K18 Pill Addictive? Evaluating Addiction Risk
Yes, oxycodone is addictive in all forms, including the K18 pill. Like other opioids, oxycodone is a Schedule II Controlled Substance, indicating a high potential for misuse along with legitimate medicinal uses.
Tolerance and Dependence
Over time, the body can develop a tolerance to oxycodone, meaning higher doses are needed to feel the same effects. This can lead to physical dependence, where the body relies on the drug to function normally. Even when taken as prescribed, long-term use can cause withdrawal symptoms if the drug is suddenly stopped.
Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Opioid withdrawal is typically not life-threatening, but it can be uncomfortable. Some people compare it to having the flu.
Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Anxiety or irritability
- Sweating
- Chills or goosebumps
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Cravings for the drug
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Oxycodone withdrawal is best managed in a medical detox facility under professional guidance. Medications can be prescribed to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Drug Addiction Risk Factors
Certain risk factors can make some people more susceptible to K18 pill abuse and addiction.ย
These include:
- A personal or family history of substance use disorders
- Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD
- Long-term or high-dose opioid use
- Abuse of an opioid analgesic without a prescription
- Environmental or social factors, such as peer pressure or lack of support
- A history of trauma or abuse
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K18 Pill Drug Interactions
The K18 pill contains 5 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride, which can interact with many other drugs. Some interactions can increase the risk of dangerous side effects, including slowed breathing, extreme drowsiness, or overdose. Here are the most important types of drug interactions to be aware of if youโre taking the K18 pill for pain relief or recreational purposes.
- Alcohol – Drinking alcohol while taking oxycodone can dangerously slow your breathing and heart rate, increasing the risk of coma or death. Even small amounts of alcohol can intensify oxycodoneโs effects.
- Benzodiazepines – Drugs like Xanax, Ativan, or Valium are often used for anxiety or sleep, but can be deadly when combined with opioids. The combination greatly increases the risk of overdose. In fact, the CDC reports that more than 91% of benzodiazepine deaths involved opioids, and nearly 17% of opioid overdose deaths involved a benzodiazepine.
- Other opioids – Taking the K18 pill with other opioid medications or street opioids (like heroin or fentanyl) raises the risk of respiratory depression, overdose, and death.
- Muscle relaxers – These medications, such as carisoprodol (Soma) or cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), can enhance the sedative effects of oxycodone and contribute to dangerous levels of drowsiness and slowed breathing.
- Other medications – Certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, antibiotics, antifungals, and seizure medications can affect how oxycodone is processed in your body, making it stronger or weaker and increasing side effects or withdrawal risks.ย
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Always check with your doctor or pharmacist when taking a new medication or a new combination.
Overdose Risk and Symptoms
Opioid abuse carries significant risks, one of the most severe of which is overdose. Narcotic analgesics like oxycodone slow down breathing and can cause extreme drowsiness, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other drugs. Taking too high a dose can result in respiratory depression, a potentially life-threatening condition.ย
Common symptoms of oxycodone overdose include:
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
- Limp body
- Cold or clammy skin
- Bluish lips or fingernails
- Slow or no heartbeat
- Choking or gurgling sounds
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Seek medical attention right away if you or someone else has taken oxycodone or other pain medications and is experiencing signs of an overdose or difficulty breathing. You may also administer naloxone (Narcan), an opioid overdose reversal medication, if you have it, until a medical professional arrives at the scene.
Fact: In 2021, approximately 16,706 people died as a result of a prescription opioid drug overdose.
Other Opioid Pain Medications
Oxycodone isnโt the only prescription opioid that can cause physical and psychological dependence. Many other prescription opioids also come in small, white pills, so they can look similar. Theyโre distinguished by their unique markings, such as โK18.โ
Opioids are a class of central nervous system depressants that produce pain-relieving effects.
Other common opioid pain medications include:
- Hydrocodone (often combined with acetaminophen, sold under the brand names Norco or Vicodin)
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Fentanyl (used for surgery or cancer-related pain)
- Oxymorphone (Opana)
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- Tramadol
- Buprenorphine (used both for pain and opioid addiction treatment)
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]These medications are typically prescribed for moderate to severe pain, but they all carry a risk of addiction, overdose, and other serious side effects, especially when combined with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants.
How to Identify Pills When Youโre Unsure
If youโve found a pill and youโre unsure what it is, first and foremost, donโt take it or give it to somebody else to take. The safest thing to do is to take it to a pharmacist who can accurately identify it for you. Simply bring the pill in a secure container to the counter at your pharmacy.
Another way to identify pills is to use an online pill identifier. Websites like Drugs.com or WebMD have free pill identifier tools. You simply enter the imprint, shape, and color, and the tool will give you a list of possible matches. Be sure to accurately note the pillโs color, shape, and size. These physical characteristics can help narrow down the possibilities when combined with the imprint.
These online identifiers are useful tools, however, you should always confirm with your pharmacist to make sure, especially if you or someone you love is planning on taking the pill.
Never take a pill unless you are completely sure what it is and why it was prescribed. Taking the wrong medication or a counterfeit version, and taking it can lead to serious side effects or overdose. Whether you found it at home or someone gave it to you, itโs best to consult a healthcare provider or dispose of it safely.
If someone has taken an unknown pill, seek medical guidance or contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Signs of Opioid Use Disorder
If you or someone you love has been misusing the K18 pill, you may be struggling with an opioid use disorder. Opioid use disorder, also called addiction, is a serious health condition characterized by uncontrollable substance abuse, intense drug cravings, and the inability to stop even when you want to.
Common signs of K18 pill addiction include:
- Taking more K18 pills than prescribed or using them more often
- Visiting multiple doctors in an attempt to get more than one prescription (doctor shopping) or buying the drugs illegally
- Difficulty cutting back or stopping despite wanting to
- Spending a lot of time thinking about, obtaining, or using opioids
- Craving the drug when not using it
- Continued use even when it causes problems at work, school, or in relationships
- Needing more of the drug to feel the same effects (tolerance)
- Feeling sick or anxious when not using (withdrawal symptoms)
- Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities
- Hiding K18 pill use or lying about how much was taken
- Mental health issues, ranging from depression and anxiety to mood swings
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]If these signs sound familiar to you or someone you care about, it may be time to consider treatment.
Treatment for Oxycodone Addiction
Opioid addiction is a serious condition that requires professional treatment.
Treatment may include:
- Medical detox – Medical supervision is key to a safe and effective detox. Medical detox programs have physicians and nursing staff who can prescribe medications to minimize withdrawal symptoms and provide around-the-clock care to prevent adverse effects like dehydration, high blood pressure, or severe anxiety.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – MAT uses FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine or methadone to reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms. These medications are often combined with counseling and are proven to improve long-term recovery outcomes for people who are trying to overcome opioid addiction.
- Behavioral therapies – Therapy helps individuals understand the root causes of their addiction, develop healthy coping strategies, and build motivation to stay sober. Common approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing.
- Holistic treatments – Many treatment centers offer holistic options like yoga, meditation, art therapy, or fitness programs. These approaches support overall well-being, reduce stress, and help individuals reconnect with their bodies and minds during recovery. Many of these therapies can also have pain-relieving effects.
- Aftercare support – Addiction recovery doesnโt end when formal treatment does. Ongoing support through sober living, outpatient programs, peer groups, or individual counseling helps prevent relapse and provides a foundation for long-term success.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]If you or someone you care about is struggling with oxycodone use, you are not alone. Treatment is available, and it works when you stick to it. Reach out to Moving Mountains Recovery to take the first step.
Find Opioid Addiction Treatment at Moving Mountains Recovery
If you or someone you love is struggling with oxycodone pill addiction, the time to get help is now. At Moving Mountains Recovery, we provide comprehensive treatment for drug addiction and mental health disorders, providing our clients with a path forward.
Whether you got addicted to K18 pills after using them for chronic pain management or you bought them off the street, weโre here to help. Our treatment programs combine medical detox, behavioral therapies, and long-term support to help you safely recover. We have step-down levels of care, including partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and outpatient (OP), to support you at every stage of your recovery.
At Moving Mountains Recovery, we understand how serious opioid addiction is. We are passionate about helping people find freedom from their addiction and rebuild their lives on a strong foundation of recovery. Our team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to helping people find recovery. We are ready to answer any questions about opioid addiction and help where we can.
To learn more about our oxycodone addiction treatment programs or to get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the K18 Pill and Oxycodone
1. Can the K18 pill be detected on a drug test?
Yes. The K18 pill contains oxycodone, which is a common opioid that is detectable on standard drug tests. For the average individual, it can be identified in urine for 1โ4 days after the last dose, in blood for up to 24 hours, in saliva for 1โ2 days, and in hair for up to 90 days. The exactl detection times may vary based on metabolism, dosage, and frequency of use.
2. What should I do if I accidentally take someone elseโs K18 pill?
If youโve taken a K18 pill by mistake, monitor for symptoms such as drowsiness, slowed breathing, or confusion, especially if you have never taken opioids before or have a low tolerance. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications that may interact.
3. Are there any alternatives to oxycodone for pain relief that are less addictive?
Yes. Depending on the type and severity of your pain, alternatives include non-opioid medications like NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), acetaminophen, antidepressants (for nerve pain), anticonvulsants (like gabapentin), or physical therapy. Always consult a healthcare provider before switching medications.
4. What should I do if I think someone is developing an addiction to K18 pills?
Approach the person with empathy and concern, not judgment. Express what you’ve noticed and encourage them to seek professional help. You can also contact a local addiction support service or treatment center for guidance on staging an intervention or connecting them with care.
5. How can I safely dispose of unused or expired K18 pills?
The best way to dispose of unused opioids is through a DEA-authorized drug take-back program or drop-off box, often available at pharmacies or police stations. If none are available, mix the pills (do not crush) with an unappealing substance like used coffee grounds or cat litter, seal them in a bag, and throw them in the trash. Always scratch out personal information on prescription labels before discarding bottles.
6. Can I drive or operate machinery after taking a K18 pill?
You should avoid driving or using heavy machinery after taking oxycodone, especially when starting the medication or adjusting your dose. Oxycodone can impair your reaction time and decision-making, even if you donโt feel noticeably drowsy.[/vc_column_text][vc_tta_accordion section_title_tag=”p” gap=”2″ c_icon=”chevron” active_section=”0″][vc_tta_section title=”References:” tab_id=”1748182647148-e00ab8fd-b94a”][vc_column_text css=””]
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Oxycodone
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Oxycodone
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
- NIH: Label: Oxycodone Hydrochloride tablet
- JAMA Network: Effectiveness of Oxycodone Hydrochloride (Strong Opioid) vs Combination Acetaminophen and Codeine (Mild Opioid) for Subacute Pain After Fractures Managed Surgically
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Trends in Nonfatal and Fatal Overdoses Involving Benzodiazepines โ 38 States and the District of Columbia, 2019โ2020
- Frontiers in Pharmacology: Drug Interactions With New Synthetic Opioids
- American Psychiatric Association (APA): Opioid Use Disorder
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