Darvon

Darvon is a narcotic pain reliever composed of acetaminophen and propoxyphene. This drug is used to treat mild to moderate pain, and for other purposes. However, due to causing heart arrhythmias and suicidal thoughts, this drug was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2010. However, Darvon continues to be available on the black market. Darvon is often abused when taken with a sedative, such as Xanax or Valium, alcohol, and/or an antidepressant. This drug is habit-forming and has dangerous side effects when used in combination with other substances. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Darvon is used by more than 12 million people in the U.S. for nonmedical reasons.

Effects of Darvon

Darvon is a drug that has serious side effects. If an allergic reaction occurs, the person using Darvon will have swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, and rashes. Also, other side effects include:
  • Shallow breathing
  • Slow heartbeat
  • Lightheadedness and fainting
  • Confusion, delusions, and abnormal behavior
  • Seizure
  • Jaundice
  • Dizziness or drowsiness
  • Blurred vision
  • Muscle pain
  • Headaches
The social effects of Darvon include:
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Broken relationships
  • Division and damage to the family
  • Disinterest in normal activities
If you suspect you or someone you are with has overdosed on Darvon, call 911 or the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. When taken with other drugs or alcohol, and overdose can be fatal. Symptoms of overdose include clammy skin, dilated pupils, drowsiness, confusion, cold skin, shallow breathing, irregular heartbeat, and fainting.

Causes of Darvon Addiction

Darvon is abused by people everywhere. Misuse of the drug will rapidly progress to full blow addiction, as the person seeks a sense of euphoria or “high.” This becomes a regular addiction, and the person needs more and more of the drug to achieve the desired effect, which is known as tolerance. When a person continues with this vicious cycle of abuse, they often suffer from co-occurring mental disorders and/or eating disorders. Addictive diseases are influences by genetics, environment, and personality.

Signs and Symptoms of Darvon Addiction

For those who are addicted to Darvon, several signs and symptoms will become noticeable. Not everyone has the same signs and symptoms. These include:
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Vision problems
  • Itching
  • Mood changes
  • Constipation
  • Restlessness
  • Altered sleep patterns
  • Stomach pain

Darvon Withdrawals

Darvon withdrawals occur when a person is addicted to this drug and does not have it. Much like other opioid drugs, the person will need to go through a detoxification process, and will be prescribed naxolene or buprenorphine to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, sweats, insomnia, sweats, nightmares, and headaches.
A person dependent on Darvon is at risk of relapse once the withdrawal process if over. This is where counseling and rehabilitation is necessary for the person to remain drug-free. Having support at a treatment center will greatly reduce the likelihood of return to drug use. Darvon addiction is devastating and overwhelming. However, seeking professional help is best so you do not have to be alone during the process of recovery.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Prescription Painkiller Overdoses in the United States”. http://www.cdc.gov/Features/VitalSigns/PainkillerOverdoses/index.html