Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65

Generic Name: aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Pronunciation: AS pir in/CAF feen/proe POX ih feen)

• What is aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What are the possible side effects of aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What is the most important information I should know about aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• How should I take aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What happens if I overdose (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What should I avoid while taking aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• What other drugs will affect aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?

Propoxyphene (related to codeine) is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It relieves pain.

Aspirin is a less potent pain reliever, as well as an anti-inflammatory and a fever reducer. Aspirin increases the effects of propoxyphene.

Caffeine constricts blood vessels. This is believed to help relieve tension headaches by constricting dilated blood vessels in the head.

The combination, aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene, is used to treat moderate-to-severe pain.

Aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Darvon Compound 65

gray/red, imprinted with LILLY 3111, DARVON COMP 65

What are the possible side effects of aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• slow, weak breathing;
• seizures;
• cold, clammy skin;
• severe weakness or dizziness;
• unconsciousness; or
• black, bloody, or tarry stools or blood in your urine or vomit.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene and talk to your doctor if you experience

• constipation;
• dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
• dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness;
• muscle twitches;
• sweating;
• itching
• decreased urination;
• decreased sex drive; or
• ringing in the ears.

Propoxyphene may be habit forming. Physical and/or psychological dependence can occur, and withdrawal effects are possible if the medication is stopped suddenly after prolonged or high-dose treatment. Do not stop taking aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene suddenly without first talking to your doctor if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce the dose.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene (Darvon Compound 32, Darvon Compound-65, PC-CAP, Propoxyphene Compound 65)?

Propoxyphene may be habit forming. Physical and/or psychological dependence can occur, and withdrawal effects are possible if the medication is stopped suddenly after prolonged or high-dose treatment. Do not stop taking aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene suddenly without first talking to your doctor if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce the dose.

Avoid alcohol while taking aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication which could be dangerous. Also, alcohol increases the risk of stomach bleeding when taking aspirin.

Do not take more of this medication than is prescribed. If the pain is not being adequately treated, talk to your doctor.

Do not take other over-the-counter and prescription products that contain aspirin. Too much aspirin could be dangerous. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter preparations.

Drowsiness or dizziness caused by aspirin/caffeine/propoxyphene may be increased by other drugs such as antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), other pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Together, these medicines may cause dangerous sedation, possibly resulting in unconsciousness or death. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.

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