Darvocet
® (
propoxyphene/acetaminophen) is a prescription medication approved to treat mild to moderate pain, with or without a fever. It contains two different medications -- propoxyphene napsylate (Darvon-N
®) and
acetaminophen (
Tylenol®). There are actually three different types, including:
Who Makes This Medication?
Brand-name Darvocet is made by Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Generic versions are made by various manufacturers.
Propoxyphene (one of the active ingredients in Darvocet) is classified as a mild, centrally-acting, narcotic pain reliever. "Centrally-acting" means that it works in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). Propoxyphene is chemically related to
methadone.
The other active ingredient in the drug is acetaminophen (commonly known as "APAP"). It is a pain reliever and fever reducer commonly found in non-prescription medications such as Tylenol. Adding acetaminophen to propoxyphene increases the effectiveness for relieving pain and also provides fever-reducing properties.
Darvocet has a significant potential for both psychological and physical dependence and abuse. In fact, it is classified as a controlled substance, meaning that there are special rules and regulations for prescribing and obtaining the medication.
Because the medication can be a desirable drug of abuse, people often try to buy it through illegal means, such as from foreign countries or online sources that do not require a prescription.
For more information, visit the following eMedTV articles:
When and How to Take Darvocet
General considerations include the following:
- This medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, often every four hours as needed for pain.
- It is probably best to take the medication with food, as it can be upsetting to the stomach.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication (see Darvocet and Alcohol).
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not increase your dose without your healthcare provider's approval. Do not suddenly stop taking Darvocet, especially if you have taken it regularly for more than several weeks (see Darvocet Withdrawal).
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to Darvocet
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Darvocet can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will have problems. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of this medication include, but are not limited to:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting.
(Click Darvocet Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Darvocet?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- A lung problem, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cor pulmonale
- Problems with your pancreas or gallbladder
- A history of head injury
- An intestinal blockage (bowel obstruction).
- Depression
- Suicidal tendencies
- Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- A history of drug or alcohol dependence
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose with Darvocet can be very dangerous. If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Darvocet Be Stored?
Darvocet tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children. Because it can be a desirable drug of abuse, make sure to keep it in a safe place.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
This medication is often prescribed "as needed," which means you do not need to take a dose if you do not feel pain. If you forget to take a dose and notice significant pain, take your missed dose right away. However, make sure to wait the recommended time before the next dose.
Darvocet tablets are available in the following strengths:
Generic Availability of Darvocet
