Blues, Oxys, Roxys, and More: The Differences and Dangers of Counterfeit Prescription Pills

There used to be a time when prescription drug abuse was considered the “safe” alternative to abusing street drugs. At least with prescription medications you knew exactly what and how much of a narcotic was in each pill. Unfortunately, there is no “safe” alternative anymore. Counterfeit prescription pills, often marketed as legitimate medications are typically laced with hazardous substances such as fentanyl. Understanding the differences and risks associated with these counterfeit drugs is crucial for safeguarding your health and your loved ones.

Understanding Counterfeit Pills

Counterfeit pills are illicitly manufactured and often sold online or through unregulated channels. They are made to look like genuine prescription medications such as Oxycodone, Roxicodone, Xanax, and other narcotics. However, these fake pills often contain harmful ingredients, including fentanyl, a potent opioid that can be lethal in small doses. These pills are cheap to produce, the demand for them is huge, and profit margin for the distributors even bigger.

The Dangers of Counterfeit Drugs

1. Unexpected Potency: Counterfeit pills often contain higher doses of active ingredients, leading to accidental overdoses. While a user may ingest what they believe to be a tolerated dose of Oxycodone, they are actually taking a lethal amount of fentanyl. 
   
   
2. Contaminants: These pills usually include harmful substances like fentanyl, which significantly increases the risk of overdose and death. They are also not created in regulated, sterile pharmaceutical grade environments like regular prescription drugs are. This means literally anything could wind up in the pills that are ingested. 
   
   
3. Misleading Appearance: They are made to look like legitimate medications, making it difficult for users to distinguish them from genuine medications. This means that even people who are prescribed these medications for legitimate medical reasons could accidentally take something that could kill them. 

Commonly Counterfeited Medications

• Painkillers: The majority of counterfeit pills are made to look like 30 mg oxycodone tablets. Known on the street as oxy’s, roxy’s, and blues, these medications are extremely popular and have a demand. Unless received directly from a pharmacy, there is a high likelihood that any 30 mg oxycodone found are counterfeit. 
  
  
• Benzodiazepines: Alongside oxycodone, Xanax is a popular pill that is counterfeited. Made to look like the tablets, it is not uncommon for these medications to be filled with an illicit sedative called bromazolam and/or fentanyl.
  
  
• Stimulants: While not usually made with fentanyl, counterfeit Adderall pills are often created using methamphetamine. If you are buying what you think is prescription stimulant pills off the street or online, you are more than likely taking meth. 

How to Stay Safe

Only Use Prescriptions from a Licensed Pharmacy: Always obtain medications from reputable pharmacies and with the okay from a medical professional. 

• Be Aware of the Risks: Understand that purchasing pills from unverified sources can be life-threatening and may contain unknown and dangerous ingredients. 
  
  
• Seek Help: If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, professional treatment is essential. Getting help now could mean the difference between a lethal overdose and a happy, healthy life. 

Treatment Options at The Owl's Nest

At The Owl's Nest in Florence, SC, we offer comprehensive treatment programs for substance abuse and addiction. Our services include:

1. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Intensive care with and without onsite living arrangements. 
   
   
2. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Flexible treatment that allows patients to maintain daily responsibilities while continuing to have accountability and therapeutic support. 
   
   
3. Sober Living & Transitional Housing: Safe housing to support long-term recovery.

Call Today

Counterfeit prescription pills are a growing threat that demands awareness and caution. If you or someone you know is dealing with substance abuse, The Owl's Nest provides a safe haven for recovery. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. Give us a call today.