Precautions

• Using propoxyphene for pain relief might not be appropriate for every patient. Ask your doctor whether you are a good candidate for using it. According to Drugs.com, the Food and Drug Administration has classified propoxyphene as pregnancy category C. This means that it might harm a fetus and cause addiction symptoms in a newborn. Propoxyphene should never be used while pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also not use propoxyphene if you have a history of suicidal actions or thoughts. Patients should inform their doctor of all pre-existing medical conditions, especially asthma, sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, other breathing disorder, mental illness, history of brain tumor or head trauma, kidney or liver disease or a history of alcohol or drug addiction.
  
  Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, both prescription and over-the-counter. Propoxyphene can interact with some medications, such as blood thinners, antidepressants and seizure medications. Never use propoxyphene with any other narcotic pain medication, muscle relaxant, tranquilizer or sedative. Do not drink alcohol while taking propoxyphene, and do not use any product that contains alcohol.
  
  

Usage

• Propoxyphene has the potential to be habit-forming. Use only the amount your doctor recommends. Keep your medication in a safe place so that others, including children, cannot use it. When you're ready to stop taking propoxyphene, talk to your doctor about gradually withdrawing from it. This will decrease your risk of withdrawal symptoms.
  
  Your doctor might advise you to take one pill every four hours. Do not use more than this, and do not use more than six propoxyphene capsules in any 24-hour period. If you experience stomach upset or nausea, try taking your medication with food or milk. You also might decrease your nausea by lying down for one to two hours. Try not to move your head while you lie down.
  
  Propoxyphene will work best to combat your pain if you take it at the first sign of pain. Waiting until you are in greater pain will lessen its efficacy.
  
  

Warnings

• The FDA warns that patients using propoxyphene have a high risk of a fatal overdose. Death within the first hour after an overdose is possible. If you suspect you have taken too much of this medication, seek medical help immediately. Possible overdose symptoms include confusion, clammy or cold skin, fainting, problems breathing and extreme drowsiness. You should also go to an emergency room if you experience hallucinations, seizures, jaundice, hives or facial swelling. Other side effects can include dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, muscle pain, stomach pain, headache, constipation, nausea and vomiting.