Darvon-N

Generic name: Propoxyphene napsylate

What is Darvon-N?

Darvon-N is a narcotic pain medication that is used for the relief of mild to moderate pain.

What is the most important information I should know about Darvon-N?

You can become dependent on Darvon-N if you take more than the recommended dose over a long period of time.

Use with caution if you are taking tranquilizers or antidepressant drugs, or if you use alcohol in excess. Combining Darvon-N with alcohol or these drugs in excessive doses is dangerous.

Because Darvon-N can make you sleepy, use care while driving a car or using machines until you know how the drug affects you.

Who should not take Darvon-N?

You should not take Darvon-N if you are depressed, have suicidal thoughts, or if you are prone to addiction. The use of this drug in children less than 12 years is not recommended.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Darvon-N?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Darvon-N. Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking tranquilizers, sleep aids, antidepressants, antihistamines, or any other drugs that make you sleepy. The use of these drugs with Darvon-N increases their sedative effects and may lead to an overdose, which could cause serious, and even life-threatening, side effects, including death. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have ever had kidney or liver problems, if you use alcohol in excess, or if you are suicidal or prone to addiction. Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Darvon-N or Darvocet.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage is 100 milligrams (mg) every 4 hours as needed for pain.

How should I take Darvon-N?

Follow your doctor's directions exactly. Do not take more of the medication than your doctor prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Darvon-N?

You should avoid alcohol while taking this drug. The combination of alcohol with Darvon-N is dangerous and may lead to overdose symptoms such as weakness, difficulty in breathing, confusion, anxiety, and severe drowsiness and dizziness.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Darvon-N?

If Darvon-N is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Darvon-N with the following: alcohol, anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine, antidepressants, antihistamines, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, warfarin

What are the possible side effects of Darvon-N?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, feelings of elation or discomfort, hallucination, headache, lightheadedness, minor visual disturbances, nausea, skin rashes, vomiting, weakness

Can I receive Darvon-N if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Darvon-N during pregnancy unless your doctor knows you are pregnant and specifically recommends its use. Cases of temporary dependence newborns have occurred when the mother has taken drugs such as Darvon-N consistently in the weeks before delivery.

Low levels of this drug have been detected in human breast milk. You should discuss with your doctor whether it is safe to breastfeed.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Darvon-N?

Take it as soon as you remember, but make sure the following doses are at least 4 hours apart. Do not take 2 doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

How should I store Darvon-N?

Store at room temperature.