Product Information
Darvocet is a combination medication containing propoxyphene and acetaminophen. Propoxyphene belongs to the class of narcotic pain relievers, while acetaminophen is a milder pain reliever and fever reducer that enhances the effects of propoxyphene. Darvocet is used to alleviate mild to moderate pain, with or without fever. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as joint pain, menstrual cramps, and back pain.
How Should I Take Darvocet?
Take Darvocet exactly as prescribed by your doctor and follow the instructions on the medication label. Inform your healthcare provider if the medication seems less effective in managing your pain.
Important Dosage Guidelines:
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An overdose of acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage.
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Adults should not exceed 1 gram (1,000 mg) per dose or 4 grams (4,000 mg) per day of acetaminophen.
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If you consume more than three alcoholic drinks daily, consult your doctor before taking this medication.
Withdrawal Precaution:
Abruptly stopping Darvocet may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for guidance on safely discontinuing the medication.
Pre-Surgery Notice:
If you require surgery, inform your surgeon that you are taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene, as you may need to pause the medication for a period.
Storage Instructions:
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Store Darvocet at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
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Keep track of your medication usage, as propoxyphene is a controlled substance, and unauthorized use should be monitored.
Precautions When Taking Darvocet
Darvocet can be habit-forming, especially when taken regularly or in high doses. It should only be used when other pain relief options are ineffective.
Drug Interactions:
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MAO inhibitors can cause serious health complications if taken with Darvocet. Maintain a two-week gap between their use.
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Do not share this medication with individuals who have a history of drug addiction.
Health Conditions to Disclose to Your Doctor:
Before taking Darvocet, inform your doctor if you have or have had:
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Liver or kidney disease
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Breathing disorders (asthma, sleep apnea, COPD)
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Head injury or brain tumor
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Stomach, intestinal, gallbladder, or pancreas disorders
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Suicidal thoughts or mental illness
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A history of drug or alcohol addiction
If you consume three or more alcoholic beverages daily or have cirrhosis (alcoholic liver disease), consult your doctor before taking Darvocet, as acetaminophen may not be safe for you.
Darvocet Drug Interactions
To avoid harmful drug interactions, consult your healthcare provider if you are taking any of the following:
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Sedatives: Sleeping pills, muscle relaxers
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Antidepressants: Including nefazodone
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Seizure medications
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Cold or allergy medications
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Blood thinners: Aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin)
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Hormonal medications: Birth control pills
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Diuretics: Including furosemide (Lasix)
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Steroids: Dexamethasone (Hexadrol, Decadron)
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Antibiotics: Rifapentine (Priftin), clarithromycin (Biaxin), rifampin (Rifadin, Rifamate, Rifater)
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Barbiturates: Phenobarbital (Solfoton)
If you are unsure about any drug interactions, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Darvocet.
Darvocet Risks and Warnings
Certain CYP3A4 inhibitors can affect propoxyphene metabolism, leading to severe side effects. Avoid consuming:
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Grapefruit juice
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Certain antibiotics: Clarithromycin, erythromycin
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Antifungals: Ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole
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Heart medications: Amiodarone, diltiazem, verapamil
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HIV medications: Ritonavir, nelfinavir, fosamprenavir, amprenavir
Overdose Warning:
Numerous cases of propoxyphene overdose have been reported, both alone and in combination with other CNS depressants (such as alcohol). If an overdose occurs, seek immediate emergency help, as fatalities can happen within the first hour.
Darvocet Dosage
Dosage depends on the severity of pain, history of substance abuse, other medications being taken, and individual health factors.
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Darvocet 100 mg: 1 tablet every 4 hours (Maximum: 6 tablets per day)
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Darvocet 50 mg: 2 tablets every 4 hours (Maximum: 12 tablets per day)
Follow your doctor’s instructions closely to avoid overuse and dependency.
Darvocet Side Effects
Seek immediate medical help if you experience an allergic reaction, such as:
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Breathing difficulties
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Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue
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Hives
Severe Side Effects:
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Difficulty breathing, chest pain
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Slow heartbeat, shallow breathing, fainting
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Seizures (convulsions)
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Unusual thoughts, confusion, or behavior changes
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Liver damage: Nausea, loss of appetite, stomach pain, itching, clay-colored stools, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Common Side Effects:
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Dizziness, drowsiness, or headache
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Nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach
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Constipation
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Dry mouth
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Blurred vision
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