Deadly Side Effects Associated with Darvon and Darvocet Pain Killers

The more than 22 million people who are estimated to have taken the popular pain killers Darvon and Darvocet are likely looking for answers about side effects from the drugs that were recalled on November 19, 2010.

As one of the 25 most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States, propoxyphene based pain killers have been linked to cardiac toxicity resulting in heart rate abnormalities

Some tell-tale signs of negative Darvon and Darvocet symptoms include:

• Heartbeat abnormalities and heart palpitations
• A feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath

Patients with these symptoms are urged to immediately make an appointment with their doctor to speak about changing their medication regiment. Both Darvon and Darvocet are addictive and toxic to the human heart, interfering with the muscle’s electrical activity and causing abnormalities in its rhythm.

Under no circumstances should you discontinue the use of Darvon or Darvocet without consulting with your physician. The principle ingredient, propoxyphene is a narcotic and if you have been taking the drug for an extended period of time, withdrawal symptoms may occur.

If you have been taking the drug for an extended period of time, you may be reluctant to change because you feel it has been effective. However, studies have shown that pain relieving properties are not substantially greater than those of acetaminophen alone. There are numerous painkillers available that do a better job and do not carry the same risks.

Older patients with impaired kidney function are especially high risk. Fortunately, the effects of taking Darvon and Darvocet (or a generic propoxyphene) are not cumulative. However, even minor modifications in a patient’s health, such as dehydration due to a case of the flu or common cold or a change in other medications can greatly increase the risk of an adverse reaction to propoxyphene. Once the medicine is discontinued, the risk of medical complications is mitigated.

Patients who are allergic to Darvon or Darvocet may experience a rash or hives and swelling of the face and mouth. Some report confusion and even a loss of consciousness. Difficulty breathing and tightness of the chest are also common as is a cold, clammy feeling to the skin. Any adverse reaction should be immediately reported to your physician.

If you use Darvon, Darvocet or similar pain killers you are urged to talk with a physician, whether you are experiencing any side effects or not. As the removal of Darvon, Darvocet, and propoxyphene generics from the market progresses and supplies dwindle, it is especially important for patients to change medications and to be monitored for adverse symptoms of withdrawal.

Legal Help for Victims of Darvon & Darvocet Side Effects

If you or someone you love has been hospitalized by Darvon or Darvocet side effects, please contact us immediately to discuss a possible Darvon and Darvocet Lawsuit with a Darvon Recall Lawyer at our firm.