subject: Painkillers and Heart Problems [print this page] Painkillers and Heart Problems Painkillers and Heart Problems
Darvocet is a painkiller that contains propoxyphene and was manufactured by Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals. There has been a Darvocet Recall issuedby the FDA due to the increased risk of heart problems. This recall includes Darvocet and Darvon generics as they all contain propoxyphene. Darvon was placed on the market in 1957 and was used to relieve mild to moderate pain. Later it was sold as Darvocet which contains propoxyphene and acetaminophen which is the active agent in Tylenol.
Darvocet is a commonly prescribed medication for pain that has been taken by more than 22 million people.
The FDA wanted a Darvocet Recall in early 2009 after realizing that the risks of overdose, heart complications and suicide were serious. In other words, the side effects outweighted the benefits. Plus, Darvocet is not the best of pain relievers. In mid 2009, the FDA decided to allow Darvocet to be marketed but required a 'Black Box' warning to be placed on all packaging. A black box warning is the most severe warnings that the FDA requires. This new warning was to include an increased risk of irregular heart beat that in some cases could be fatal. In actuality, the FDA has wanted to issue a recall for Darvocet two times since 1978 because of two petitions. One request came from Public Citizen (a consumer advocacy group) in 2006 to recall Darvocet.
New studies clearly indicate that that the normal dose of Darvocet (propoxyphene) can increase the risk of heart arrythmias. These studies do however point out that long-term use of the drug should not be commulative. In other words, once you terminate Darvocet the increased risk of heart problems go away.
The FDA has advised healthcare providers to stop prescribing Darvocet to their patients. Also, patients currently on this pain reliever should make an appointment with their doctors as soon as they can to talk about using another painkiller.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of taking Darvocet, you should consult a Darvocet Lawyer. These lawyers are qualified professionals on Darvocet litigation and can inform you of your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering.
