Propoxyphene/Acetaminophen

Propoxyphene/acetaminophen is a prescription medicine licensed for the treatment of mild to moderate pain. It is a combination product that contains a narcotic and a pain reliever commonly found in over-the-counter drugs. The medication comes in tablet form and is taken every four hours as needed for pain. It is classified as a controlled substance and has the potential to be abused.

What Is Propoxyphene/Acetaminophen?

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.
 
Propoxyphene/acetaminophen (Darvocet®) is a prescription medication approved to treat mild-to-moderate pain, with or without a fever. It contains two different medications -- propoxyphene napsylate (Darvon-N®) and acetaminophen (Tylenol®). There are actually three different types of propoxyphene/acetaminophen, including:
 
(Click What Is Propoxyphene/Acetaminophen Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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