Dextropropoxyphene + Paracetamol/acetaminophen

Dosage Forms Available

• Dextropropoxyphene + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen is available for oral administration in the form of tablets and capsules.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This combination medicine is meant for use in adults and children over 12 years of age.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe asthma, serious breathing problems, and bowel obstruction.

• It is also contraindicated in people who are allergic to Dextropropoxyphene, Paracetamol/Acetaminophen, or any inactive ingredients in this medication.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with other opioid pain medications (like morphine and oxycodone), cough and cold medicines (like benzonatate and guaifenesin), sedatives (like alprazolam and zolpidem), tranquillizers (like diazepam), muscle relaxants (like baclofen, methocarbamol), antidepressants (like fluoxetine, sertraline), antihistamines (like cetirizine), antipsychotics (like risperidone, olanzapine), and certain antibiotics (like erythromycin).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Dextropropoxyphene + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage, especially in people who drink alcohol. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's close to the time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and return to your regular medication schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water may help alleviate some side effects like dry mouth and constipation.

• If dizziness or drowsiness occurs, try sitting or lying down until these symptoms pass.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Dextropropoxyphene + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel affected.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• This combination may be harmful to an unborn baby. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed, and the benefits outweigh the risks.

• Small amounts of this medication can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Breastfeeding while using this medicine is not recommended.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with breathing problems like COPD or sleep apnea, liver or kidney disease, history of head injury or brain tumour, seizures, adrenal gland disorder, enlarged prostate, and digestive system disorders should exercise caution when taking this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and fibre to prevent constipation caused by opioid medications.

• Stay well hydrated to help prevent constipation and dry mouth.

• Engage in physical activity as it might help improve mood and reduce feelings of fatigue.