An Introduction to Propoxyphene Hydrochloride Side Effects
In November 2010, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdrew all medications that contain propoxyphene from the market. It has been determined that the risks of propoxyphene outweigh the possible benefits. In particular, the FDA was concerned about the drug's ability to cause serious changes in the heart rhythm, even at normal doses. Pharmacies will no longer sell this medication, and people who take it should stop and ask their healthcare provider for a more suitable pain medication.
As with any medicine,
propoxyphene hydrochloride (
Darvon®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects of this drug. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Serious Side Effects of Propoxyphene Hydrochloride
Some side effects with propoxyphene hydrochloride are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider.
These include but are not limited to:
- Hallucinations
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Unexplained, unpleasant feelings (dysphoria) or unexplained, pleasant feelings (euphoria)
- The urge to take more propoxyphene hydrochloride than prescribed or for a nonmedical purpose
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Signs of liver damage, such as:
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Upper-right abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Swelling of the mouth or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing.
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