What are the uses of Darvon?
Darvon (propoxyphene) is related to codeine and is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It works by changing the way your body feels pain. Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of Darvon (propoxyphene). Together, acetaminophen and Darvon (propoxyphene) are used to relieve pain. Acetaminophen and Darvon (propoxyphene) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are Darvon capsules or tablets?
Darvon (propoxyphene) relieves moderate to severe pain. Darvon can be combined in tablets with acetaminophen. Federal law prohibits the transfer of Darvon to any person other than the patient for whom it was prescribed. Do not share this medicine with anyone else. Generic Darvon (propoxyphene) tablets, but not capsules, are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take Darvon medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• diarrhea
• liver disease
• depression or emotional difficulties
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• lung disease or breathing difficulties
• seizures
• an unusual or allergic reaction to propoxyphene, methadone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take Darvon medicine?
Take Darvon (propoxyphene) tablets or capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water. If Darvon (propoxyphene) upsets your stomach, you can take it with food or milk. Do not take more than 6 tablets or capsules a day. Do not share Darvon (propoxyphene) medicine with anyone.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a Darvon dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next Darvon (propoxyphene) dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Darvon?
• doxercalciferol
• medicines for diabetes
• medicines for high blood pressure
• medicines for seizures, especially carbamazepine

Because Darvon( propoxyphene) can cause drowsiness, other medicines that also cause drowsiness may increase this effect of Darvon (propoxyphene). Some medicines that cause drowsiness are:
• alcohol and alcohol-containing medicines
• barbiturates such as phenobarbital
• certain antidepressants or tranquilizers
• muscle relaxants
• certain antihistamines used in cold medicines

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medications you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking Darvon?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
• breathing difficulties, wheezing
• seizures
• slow or fast heartbeat
• severe rash
More common:
• confusion
• lightheadedness or fainting spells
• nervousness or restlessness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• clumsiness, unsteadiness
• constipation
• dizziness, drowsiness
• headache
• nausea, vomiting

What should I watch for while taking Darvon?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your pain does not go away. Use exactly as directed by your prescriber or health care professional. If you are being prescribed Darvon (propoxyphene) continuously around-the-clock for pain, do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

You may get drowsy or dizzy when you first start taking Darvon (propoxyphene). Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how Darvon (propoxyphene) affects you. Stand or sit up slowly, this reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. These effects may be worse if you are an older patient. The drowsiness should decrease after taking Darvon (propoxyphene) for a couple of days.

Be careful taking other medicines which may also make you tired. This effect may be worse when taking these medicines with Darvon (propoxyphene). Alcohol can increase possible drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and affect your breathing. Avoid alcohol while taking Darvon (propoxyphene).

Darvon (propoxyphene) may cause constipation with long-term use. Try to have a bowel movement at least every 2—3 days. If you do not have a bowel movement for 3 days or more call your prescriber or health care professional.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Visit the dentist regularly.

If you are going to have surgery tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking Darvon (propoxyphene).

Where can I keep my Darvon medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Do not share or give Darvon (propoxyphene) medicine to anyone else. Avoid accidental swallowing of Darvon (propoxyphene) by someone (especially children) other than the person for whom it was prescribed as this may result in severe effects and possibly death.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.