Propoxyphene (patient information)

IMPORTANT WARNING:

Propoxyphene in high doses, taken by itself or in combination with other drugs, has been associated with drug-related deaths. Do not take propoxyphene in combination with other drugs that cause drowsiness: alcohol, tranquilizers, sleep aids, antidepressant drugs, or antihistamines. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

Why is this medication prescribed

Propoxyphene is used to relieve mild to moderate pain.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used

Propoxyphene comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take propoxyphene exactly as directed.

Propoxyphene can be habit-forming.

Shake the liquid well before each use.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking propoxyphene:

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to propoxyphene or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other pain relievers; anticoagulants ('blood-thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants; antihistamines; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; muscle relaxants; sedatives; seizure medications; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, or a history of alcoholism.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking propoxyphene, call your doctor.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking propoxyphene.
you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

What should I do if I forget a dose

Propoxyphene usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take propoxyphene regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Side effects

Mild side effects

Propoxyphene may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

dizziness
lightheadedness
drowsiness
upset stomach
vomiting
constipation
stomach pain
skin rash
mood changes
headache

Severe side effects

If you experience the following symptom, call your doctor immediately:

difficulty breathing

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names

Darvon® Compound-65 Pulvules®
Darvon® Pulvules®
Darvon-N®
E-Lor®
PC-CAP®
Wygesic®

Brand names of combination products

Darvocet A500® containing Propoxyphene Napsylate and Acetaminophen
Darvocet-N® 100 containing Propoxyphene Napsylate and Acetaminophen
Darvocet-N® 50 containing Propoxyphene Napsylate and Acetaminophen
Propocet® 100 containing Propoxyphene Napsylate and Acetaminophen