Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene (patient information)

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 this medication is 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 this medication should 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.

Special precautions
Before taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene:


 * tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, propoxyphene, sulfite, or any other drugs.
 * tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; sedatives; seizure medications; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
 * tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism, lung or thyroid disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary retention.
 * tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene, call your doctor.
 * if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene.
 * you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
 * remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

What to do if you 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.

Minor Side Effects
Acetaminophen and propoxyphene may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:


 * dizziness
 * lightheadedness
 * drowsiness
 * upset stomach
 * vomiting
 * constipation
 * stomach pain
 * rash
 * difficulty urinating

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


 * difficulty breathing
 * mood changes

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

Storage conditions needed for this medication
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.

Other information
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.

Brand names

 * Darvocet-N®
 * E-Lor®
 * Genagesic®
 * Wygesic®

Other names

 * APAP and Propoxyphene