FDA recommends against the use of propoxyphene by all patients. This includes Darvon, Darvocet, and all generic forms. The FDA reports propoxyphene causes “serious toxicity to the heart, even when used at therapeutic doses…resulting in prolonged PR interval, widened QRS complexes and prolonged QT intervals”. Even though propoxyphene relieves mild to moderate pain, the benefits are outweighed by the risk of interruption of cardiac electrical activity.
To read the entire article including suggested guidelines for healthcare professionals and patients currently taking propoxyphene products, go to http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm234338.htm
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