Q: What is Darvocet?

A: Darvocet, from the generic propoxyphene, is a prescription medication for relief of pain from mild to moderate pain.

Q: Is there any special instruction for taking Darvocet?

A: Darvocet should be taken as directed and patients are warned that Darvocet can be addictive.

Q: Is there any recent news about Darvocet?

A: The Public Citizen, a national nonprofit consumer advocacy association, asked the US Food and Drug Administration or US-FDA to ban the Darvon products or Darvocet from the market right away. The association claimed that the medication has been related with over 2,000 accidental deaths, can lead to habit-forming, and is not effective compared to safer alternatives.

Q: Is there any severe health risks associated with Darvocet?

A: High doses of Darvocet, whether it is taken alone or in combination with other medicines, have been associated with the drug-related deaths. Avoid taking Darvocet together with other medicines that can cause drowsiness, such as alcohol, sleep aides, tranquilizers, antidepressants, or antihistamines. Avoid taking Darvocet in high doses, you should take it regularly, and for prolonged period than prescribed. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you suffer difficulty breathing after taking Darvocet.

Q: What are the side effects related with Darvocet?

A: Side effects related with Darvocet are rare but you should inform your healthcare provider if you suffer from one or more of the following symptoms persistently or severely:

• Mood changes
• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Skin rashes
• Stomach pains
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Upset stomach
• Headaches

Q: What should I tell the healthcare provider before prescribing Darvocet?

A: Before taking Darvocet, you should inform your healthcare provider if you:

• Have any allergy to propoxyphene or Darvocet, or other medicines
• Have or had history of liver or kidney problems
• Have any history of alcoholism
• You are pregnant, or planning to be pregnant, or are breastfeeding your baby

Inform your healthcare provider also if you are having surgery such as dental surgery. Inform your dentist if you are taking Darvocet.

Q: Is there any interaction between Darvocet and other drugs or foods?

A: Darvocet and some medicines can interact with one another. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you are taking, including all the prescription and nonprescription medicines. Make sure that your healthcare provider knows that you are taking:

• Pain relievers
• Anticoagulant or blood thinners like warfarin or brand name Coumadin
• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Medicines for cough, colds, or allergies
• Muscle relaxants
• Sedatives
• Medicines for seizures
• Sleeping pills
• Vitamins
• Tranquilizers

Discuss with healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking Darvocet because alcohol can enhance drowsiness which is caused by Darvocet.

Q: What should I do if I think I have been injured as a consequence of taking Darvocet?

A: If you or one of your family members experiences any harmful symptoms or rare medical conditions while taking Darvocet, you should contact your doctor or other healthcare provider. Then, you can find for an experienced lawyer to explain and discuss your options and safeguard your legal rights for remedy from any injury caused by taking Darvocet.