Propoxyphene (Darvon)

What is the most important information I should know about propoxyphene?

• Do not stop taking propoxyphene suddenly if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Stopping suddenly could cause withdrawal symptoms and make you very uncomfortable. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce your dose.
• Do not take propoxyphene if you suffer from depression or have suicidal thoughts.
• Propoxyphene will cause drowsiness and fatigue. Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills, antihistamines, sedatives, and tranquilizers except under the supervision of your doctor. These may also make you drowsy.
• Propoxyphene will also cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet can also help to alleviate constipation.
• Never take more propoxyphene than is prescribed for you. If your pain is not being adequately treated, talk to your doctor.

What is propoxyphene?

• Propoxyphene is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It relieves pain.
• Propoxyphene is used to treat moderate-to-severe pain.
• Propoxyphene may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take propoxyphene?

Propoxyphene is habit forming and should only be used under close supervision if you have an alcohol or drug addiction.

Propoxyphene should not be taken if you suffer from depression or have suicidal thoughts.Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of the following:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• asthma
• urinary retention
• an enlarged prostate
• hypothyroidism
• seizures or epilepse
• gallbladder disease
• a head injury
• Addison's disease

You may not be able to take propoxyphene, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Propoxyphene may cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms as well as other harmful effects in an unborn baby. Do not take propoxyphene without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

Propoxyphene may also cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms in a nursing baby. Do not take propoxyphene without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Children younger than 12 years of age should not take propoxyphene.

If you are older than 60 years you may be more likely to experience side effects from propoxyphene therapy. Use extra caution.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a propoxyphene overdose include slow breathing, seizures, dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, coma, confusion, tiredness, cold and clammy skin, and small pupils.

What are the possible side effects of propoxyphene?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking propoxyphene and seek emergency medical attention:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives)

• slow, weak breathing
• seizures
• cold, clammy skin
• unconsciousness
• severe weakness or dizziness

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take propoxyphene and talk to your doctor if you experience

• constipation
• dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite
• dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness
• muscle twitches
• sweating
• itching
• decreased urination
• decreased sex drive

Propoxyphene is habit forming. Do not stop taking it suddenly

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