Darvocet
Darvocet is commonly known as a generic drug called propoxyphene and/or acetaminophen. Darvocet is an opioid analgesic used for treating pain and is related to the opium family and chemically similar to methodone. Opioid analgesics have been historically linked to the use and popularity of opium over twenty-three hundred years ago. It was in 1806 and 1832 that morphine and codeine were discovered respectively. Darvocet was discovered soon after and is one-half to two- thirds as potent as codeine. So, 90 to 120 mg of propoxyphene provide as much pain relief as 60 mg of codeine and 600mg of aspirin.
Opioid analgesics, including Darvocet, reduce pain by blocking the receptors in the brain that are involved in the perception and sensing of pain. Darvocet is a non-narcotic analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) relieves pain by elevating the threshold for pain by reducing fever through the heat-regulating center of the brain. Darvocet in either form of propoxyphene or acetaminophen are actually greater pain relievers when combined than when taking either alone. Darvocet is available by prescription and in generic form of capsules in 65 mg of propoxyphene and 325 mg acetaminophen, 32 mg propoxyphene, and 325 mg acetaminophen, Darvocet A500 capsules in 100 mg propoxyphene, and 500 mg in acetaminophen.
Darvocet can reduce the activity of the intestinal muscles and when combined with medications such as Tavist and cyclobenzaprine can lead to constipation. The most frequent known side effects of Darvocet are lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea, and vomiting. Other side effects include difficulty urinating, drowsiness, and constipation. Darvocet can slow breathing and therefore, is used with extreme caution in elderly, debilitated patients and in patients with serious lung disease. Like its familiar chemical counterparts, Darvocet can impair thinking and the physical abilities required for driving or operating machinery and is found to be habit forming in some patients if used in long-term care or inappropriately. There is no evidence to suggest that there is any substantial detriment to the fetus of a pregnant woman, but doctors may consider to dispense the drug if the benefits outweigh the risks. Mothers taking propoxyphene show low levels of propoxyphene in their milk. Whether or not these small amounts can cause side effects in nursing babies is unknown.
Disclaimer: Cliff Schaffer does not personally endorse or support any of the comments made within the writings of this article. |
