propoxyphene

Brand name(s):

Darvon, Darvon-N

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

Do not use this medication if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or actions. Propoxyphene should never be taken together with a sedative (such as Valium or Xanax) or an antidepressant if you are also drinking large amounts of alcohol. Propoxyphene may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not drink alcohol while you are taking propoxyphene. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with a narcotic pain medicine. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol. Never take more than your prescribed dose of propoxyphene. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain. Propoxyphene can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Do not stop using propoxyphene suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication.

What is propoxyphene?

Propoxyphene is in a group of drugs called narcotic pain relievers.

Propoxyphene is used to relieve mild to moderate pain.

Propoxyphene may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking propoxyphene?

Before using propoxyphene, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;
liver or kidney disease;
a history of head injury or brain tumor;
mental illness; or
a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use propoxyphene, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby, and could cause breathing problems or addiction/withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Propoxyphene passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine.

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