Ep 11. Pill-O-Matix

Nurse Jackie season 1 episode 11, titled "Pill-O-Matix," follows the story of a mother who is desperate to get her hands on her son's medication when the boy is diagnosed with ADHD. The mother, Mrs. Akalitus, is the hospital administrator, and she has been holding out on giving the medication until the child's father picks it up.

Meanwhile, Jackie's life is spiraling out of control. Her drug addiction has gotten worse, and she's been caught stealing medication from the hospital's dispensary. Her friend and pharmacy chief, Eddie, is furious with her, but Jackie is desperate to keep her secret hidden.

When Jackie learns about Mrs. Akalitus's withholding of the medication, she takes it upon herself to get the pills for the boy. She enlists the help of Eddie and her AA sponsor, Cruz, to break into the hospital's Pill-O-Matix vending machine.

As they work together to get the pills, tensions run high between Jackie and Eddie. Eddie is tired of covering up for Jackie's addiction and is beginning to question their friendship. Cruz, not realizing the extent of Jackie's addiction, tries to be supportive but ultimately ends up exacerbating the situation.

The episode also explores the theme of addiction and the lengths people will go to get their fix. As Jackie and Eddie search for the medication, they encounter other patients who are struggling with drug abuse. Jackie's desperation to keep her addiction a secret leads her to take risks that ultimately put her job and relationships in jeopardy.

In the end, Jackie and Eddie successfully retrieve the medication for the boy, but their actions are not without consequences. Jackie faces the reality of her addiction and the impact it's had on her life, while Eddie begins to distance himself from her.

Overall, "Pill-O-Matix" is a gripping episode that delves into the complex themes of addiction, friendship, and responsibility. The characters' struggles are relatable, and the tension is palpable as the story unfolds. It's a standout episode that sets the stage for the remainder of the season.