Darvon / Darvocet Overview
What is Darvocet?
Darvocet or Darvon (propoxyphene) is a prescription pain medication used to relieve mild to moderate pain.
Darvocet in the News
Public Citizen, a national non-profit consumer advocacy organization, petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to immediately begin phasing out Darvon (Darvocet) products from the market. Public Citizen alleges that the drug has been associated with more than 2,000 accidental deaths, is physically addictive, and is no more effective than safer alternatives. Click here to read more from Public Citizen.
Taking Darvocet
Darvocet comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid and is taken by mouth. Patients taking Darvocet should use it exactly as directed. Patients are also warned that Darvocet can be habit-forming.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Professional Before Taking Darvocet?
Before taking Darvocet, tell your healthcare professional if you:
- are allergic to propoxyphene (Darvocet) or any other drugs
- have or ever had liver or kidney disease
- have a history of alcoholism
- are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding (call your healthcare professional if you become pregnant while taking Darvocet)
If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your healthcare professional and/or dental healthcare professional if you are taking Darvocet.
Darvocet Health Risks
Darvocet in high doses (taken by itself or in combination with other drugs) has been associated with drug-related deaths. Do not take Darvocet in combination with other drugs that cause drowsiness -- such as alcohol, tranquilizers, sleep aids, antidepressants, or antihistamines. Do not take Darvocet in a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than told by your healthcare professional (or than prescribed).
Call your healthcare professional immediately if you experience difficulty breathing after taking Darvocet.
Although side effects associated with Darvocet use are not common, they can still occur. Tell your healthcare professional if any of the following symptoms are severe and/or persistent:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Drowsiness
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Skin rash
- Mood changes
- Headache
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Most content above from the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health
