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What are M 30’s?

Written by Shannon Weir, RN | Updated on Jan 28, 2023

shannon weir

Medically reviewed by Dr. Patrick J. Gallus, DO

M 30’s is another name for Oxycodone Hydrochloride 30 mg. It is an opioid and comes as a light blue pill and is marked with an “M” on the front and the number 30 on the back. A prescription must be obtained to get M 30’s. This drug is commonly abused and can be laced with other dangerous substances when being used illegally. It is highly addictive and can lead to life-threatening side effects if it is used improperly.

What are M 30’s Prescribed For?

M30’s are prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. They are immediate release pills used for post-operative or other moderate pain in a four to six-hour interval. They should be taken at the same time each day and exactly as prescribed by a doctor. They should absolutely be kept out of reach of children.

Before a patient begins taking an M 30, they should be well aware of the addictive nature of the drug and the possible side effects it can present. They should also make their doctor aware of any other medications they are taking, any health conditions they may have, and whether they are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Throughout the time that a patient is taking this drug, they should continually check in with their doctor about their progress to determine how effectively it is working and if the prescription needs to be adjusted.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Even when M 30’s are taken properly and as prescribed, there can still be potential side effects. These side effects could include but are not limited to:

  • Stomach Pain
  • Tiredness
  • Headaches
  • Sudden changes in mood
  • Flushed skin
  • Dry mouth

If any of these side effects don’t go away, a patient should tell their doctor. Their prescription may need to be modified.

Some side effects of M 30’s could be more severe. They could include:

  • Changes in heart rate
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Rash or hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Chest pain
  • Trouble breathing
  • Swelling
  • Seizures
  • Hallucinations
  • Dizziness

This drug affects different people in different ways. Because of this, it is important to avoid operating a car or other machinery until a patient is aware of the way it affects their body and mind. They should also make those around them aware that they are taking this medication in case they experience any dangerous side effects.

What are the Dangers of Misusing M 30’s?

It is highly dangerous to misuse M 30’s. The longer an individual takes this drug, the more of it they will need to experience the same effects. The more of the drug they take the more at risk they are of becoming dependent upon it and facing a potential overdose or even death. Using M 30’s with alcohol or other illicit drugs increases the risk of overdose dramatically. Misusing this drug while over the age of 65 or with other health conditions also increases the risk of overdose. It is important to recognize what the symptoms of overdose look like so that an individual can seek treatment before it is too late.

Symptoms of overdose could include but are not limited to:

  • Small pupils
  • Loss of Consciousness
  • Slowed breathing
  • Choking or trouble breathing
  • Limp body
  • Change in skin color

Long-term side effects of misusing M 30’s are possible liver or kidney malfunction or failure. A person may also develop sleep apnea or other sleep problems.

How Do I Get Treatment?

If someone finds themselves to be addicted to this drug, the first step is to talk to their doctor and share their experience with substance use. Their doctor will be able to provide resources and any necessary referrals to treatment facilities.

The next step will be to go through a detoxification process. It is safest to do this in a medical treatment facility under 24/7 medical supervision. Because there are potential life-threatening side effects from detoxing from an opioid, it is not recommended to undergo detoxification at home. The goal of this process is to rid the body entirely of the substance they are dependent upon. At Gallus Medical Detox Center, we utilize the Gallus Method of Detoxification. We believe this is the safest and most effective detox process. It also allows the patient to be as comfortable as possible by managing their withdrawal symptoms efficiently and effectively.

M 30’s should be taken only when prescribed by a doctor and exactly as prescribed. When used properly it can manage moderate to severe pain. If this drug is misused an individual can experience life-threatening health complications. The longer a person misuses this drug, the more they will build up a tolerance to it. Once an individual becomes dependent upon this medication they will need more and more of it to experience the same effects. If they take it with alcohol or other drugs they face an increased risk of overdose and even death.

Recovery from addiction to M 30’s is possible and detoxing is the first step. At Gallus Medical Detox Center we can help you take back control of your life while being treated with the respect and dignity that you deserve. Take the first step towards a happier and healthier life today by contacting us at (720) 669-8178 today.

Shannon Weir, RN

Shannon Weir, RN is the Chief Nursing Officer at Gallus Medical Detox Centers. She has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years, Shannon’s experience ranges from critical care to flight nursing, medical detox, sexual assault exams, and SWAT nursing. Shannon has been with Gallus Medical Detox Centers since 2010 and is a vital part of our organization.

Last medically reviewed on April 27, 2021

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