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Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene

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(a set a mee' noe fen) (proe pox' i feen)

Brand name(s): Darvocet-N; E-Lor; Genagesic; Wygesic
Other name(s): APAP and Propoxyphene

Contents of this page:

IMPORTANT WARNING:

Propoxyphene in high doses, taken by itself or in combination with other drugs, has been associated with drug-related deaths. Do not take propoxyphene in combination with other drugs that cause drowsiness: alcohol, tranquilizers, sleep aids, antidepressant drugs, or antihistamines. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

Why is this medication prescribed?

This combination of drugs is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. The drug also will help treat fever.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

The combination of acetaminophen and propoxyphene comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take acetaminophen and propoxyphene exactly as directed.

Propoxyphene can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene,

What should I do if I forget a dose?

This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take acetaminophen and propoxyphene regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from acetaminophen and propoxyphene are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage; do not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Last Revised - 01/01/2003


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The MedMaster™ Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.