Darvocet Overdose

Darvocet, Darvocet A500 and Wygesic are the brand names for the different combinations of propoxyphene and acetaminophen, an opioid-based prescription medication commonly used to treat pain. About one-half to two-thirds less potent than codeine, Darvocet is still dangerously addictive, just like all opioid-based prescription painkillers. Side effects of Darvocet include nausea and vomiting, drowsiness and sedation, dizziness and lightheadedness. Extended use can also lead to the development of addiction to the drug, which in turn can lead to abuse and misuse, often resulting in an overdose.

What are the Signs of a Darvocet Overdose?

If you are worried that you have taken too much Darvocet and are experiencing an overdose, there are signs and symptoms that can help you determine whether or not you need assistance. These include stomach and muscle cramps, heavy sweating, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, nausea and vomiting. You may also experience a ringing in your ears, headache, vertigo and an inability to concentrate.

If you are concerned that someone else is overdosing on their Darvocet prescription, look for blue-tinted lips and nails, an unconscious state from which you cannot wake them, pinpoint pupils and/or a faint heartbeat. If they have stopped breathing or go into convulsions or seizures, a Darvocet overdose may well be the cause.

What Do I Do in the Event of a Darvocet Overdose?

If you suspect that you have taken too much Darvocet or that someone else has, call 911 right away. Be prepared to answer questions about the drug taken, how much was ingested and the time of the last dose. The 911 operator will also need information about the patient including weight, age and their symptoms. If you don't feel that it is an emergent situation but still have concerns, then contact the National Poison Control Center toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

How is a Darvocet Overdose Treated?

When paramedics arrive, the first thing they will do is stabilize the overdose victim, that is, make sure that there is a pulse and regular breathing. If necessary, they may push a dose of naloxone, an antagonist, to immediately stop the effects of the Darvocet. This is usually delivered intravenously and may be repeated if it doesn't take effect within a few minutes. Another possible treatment is gastric lavage-getting your stomach pumped-or a dose of charcoal or a laxative to help your body purge the excess Darvocet. You may or may not be hooked up to monitors to make sure that your heart rate and blood pressure are normal. If drug treatment is effective, you should be able to go home within 24 hours. However, this is only if the overdose is not too severe and help arrives in time.

At Meditox, we want to help you avoid the risks of coma and death that accompany any opiate overdose with a Suboxone detox and treatment.

How Do I Avoid a Darvocet Overdose?

First, make sure that your prescribing doctor is aware of all the other medications, herbal supplements and vitamins that you are taking. Should you develop a new condition or start taking a new drug, inform your doctor immediately. Even anti-depression medications and alcohol can significantly increase the effect of Darvocet and create an overdose situation in your body. Be careful and always be aware of how you're feeling before doing anything that requires you to be alert, like driving.

Avoid a Darvocet Overdose Through Darvocet Addiction Treatment at Meditox

Meditox can help you stop taking Darvocet immediately without experiencing withdrawal symptoms by implementing a finely tuned treatment plan that includes Suboxone. Suboxone will bind to the same receptors that are accustomed to receiving Darvocet and, in so doing, help you avoid withdrawal symptoms. However, you won't find the same hazy feeling that accompanies a dose of Darvocet when you take Suboxone. This allows you to regain your clarity right away and embrace a drug-free lifestyle in as few as six weeks. If you would like to avoid the risk of a Darvocet overdose, contact Meditox today for more information.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

Additional Resources

Annals of Family Medicine: Treating Opioid Addiction with Buprenorphine-Naloxone in Community-Based Primary Care Settings

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August 11, 2006

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