Darvocet and similar preparations have, unfortunately, been banned from legal use in the United States. This is an important issue, and those who may have taken the drug in the past should understand why it is no longer used. Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? today if you or someone you love is struggling with a Darvocet addiction.
What Is Darvocet?
Darvocet is a brand name, prescription drug containing propoxyphene (an opioid) and acetaminophen. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the medication was prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain conditions. In most ways, the drug functions like any opioid-based medication and can cause common side effects like
Dizziness and headaches are common side effects of Darvocet.
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Rashes
- Lightheadedness
- Headache
- Weakness
- Excitement
- Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations)
- Blurry vision
If abused, it can also cause extreme relaxation and euphoria, which is why the drug and many others like it are often diverted to the black market or stolen. Long-term abuse of Darvocet can be addictive, just like in the case of misuse associated with other opioid drugs. However, Darvocet also has some potential side effects that are unlike those caused by other opioid drugs, which is why it was banned from legal use in the United States.
Darvocet’s Ban
As a result of FDA findings, Darvocet was banned in the U.S. in 2010. Other medications containing propoxyphene like Darvon and any generic brands of the drug were also banned. According to the FDA, this was based on the result of scientific studies that showed particular safety problems associated with the drug.
Propoxyphene, the main ingredient in the medication, was found to cause “significant changes to the electrical activity of the heart,” even when taken in recommended doses. These changes can potentially include
- Prolonged PR interval
- Widened QRS complex
- Prolonged QT interval
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Also according to the FDA, these changes can be seen on an EKG and may lead to abnormal heart rhythms in those who take Darvocet and drugs like it consistently and often. These changes are especially dangerous for individuals with heart conditions but can even affect those who had a healthy heart before taking a propoxyphene-based drug. The overall effects of the medication, therefore, became more negative than positive, and the drug was pulled from the market.
What Should I Do If I Am on Darvocet?
Anyone still taking Darvocet or any brand or generic drug containing propoxyphene is putting themselves in danger and should be switched to another medication by their doctor. You should talk to your doctor immediately about any concerns you have about the drug as well as any side effects you may have experienced. You should also report any side effects you may have experienced (especially abnormal heart rate, dizziness, palpitations, or lightheadedness) to your doctor.
Let Us Help You Recover
Darvocet is an especially dangerous drug for those who have been abusing it. Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? today to find safe, reliable rehab centers where you can begin your recovery from substance abuse.
