You never thought it could happen to you. The prescription your doctor gave you for pain after an injury was supposed to help, not hurt. But before you knew it, the pills had a grip on your life. Darvocet abuse and addiction is more common than you think. The compassionate team at River Rocks Recovery in Middletown, Ohio can help you reclaim your life from Darvocet. Through proven therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and individual counseling, their addiction experts create customized treatment plans that work. Break free from the chains of addiction through their partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program or traditional outpatient services. You are stronger than this drug –take the first step toward recovery today. Call (888) 905-6281 or connect with us online to find support in our outpatient program today.
What Is Darvocet?
Darvocet is a prescription painkiller that contains propoxyphene and acetaminophen. It was once commonly prescribed for relief of mild to moderate pain.
Potent Opioid Combination
- Propoxyphene is an opioid narcotic that can be highly addictive. It depresses the central nervous system.
- Acetaminophen increases the effects of propoxyphene but also raises the risk of liver damage.
Discontinued in the U.S.
Due to its potential for abuse and addiction, as well as risk of overdose, Darvocet was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2010. However, it is still obtained illegally for recreational use.
History of Darvocet
The Rise of Darvocet
Darvocet (propoxyphene/acetaminophen) was first approved for medical use in 1957. It quickly became a popular prescription painkiller due to its perceived safety and effectiveness in treating mild-to-moderate pain. Widespread marketing by the pharmaceutical industry contributed to Darvocet’s proliferation as a commonly prescribed opioid medication.
Growing Concerns
However, safety concerns began to emerge over time. Studies linked Darvocet to serious heart rhythm abnormalities, even at therapeutic doses. Additionally, its potential for abuse and addiction became increasingly apparent, mirroring the broader opioid epidemic gripping the nation.
The Downfall
In 2010, after several decades on the market, the FDA requested Darvocet’s withdrawal due to its disproportionate risks compared to benefits. This marked a pivotal moment in recognizing the dangers of prescription opioids and the need for stricter regulation to combat the opioid crisis ravaging communities nationwide.
Darvocet Addiction
The Dangerous Lure
Darvocet, a combination of propoxyphene and acetaminophen, was once frequently prescribed for pain relief. However, its addictive potential and severe side effects led to its withdrawal from the U.S. market in 2010. Despite this, Darvocet addiction remains a serious concern.
Concerning Statistics
- In 2009, over 19 million Darvocet prescriptions were dispensed in the U.S.
- Between 2005-2009, over 2,000 overdose cases involving Darvocet were reported to U.S. poison control centers.
Road to Recovery at River Rocks
At River Rocks Recovery, we understand the challenges of Darvocet addiction. Our comprehensive programs, including partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), and outpatient services, provide a compassionate path to healing. Evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, individual counseling, and specialized addiction therapy equip you with tools for lasting sobriety.
Consider these alarming statistics:
- According to a 2023 study, nearly 7 million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs like Darvocet
- Prescription opioids killed over 17,000 people in 2016 in the U.S. alone
- Overdose deaths from prescription painkillers have quadrupled since 1999
Why Was Darvocet Taken Off the Market?
The prescription pain medication Darvocet (propoxyphene and acetaminophen) was withdrawn from the U.S. market in November 2010 at the request of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This decision was based on new data showing the drug puts patients at risk of potentially fatal heart rhythm abnormalities – even when taken at recommended doses.
Heart Safety Concerns
Darvocet belongs to a class of painkillers called opioid agonists. Studies found it can cause significant changes to the electrical activity of the heart, increasing the risk of serious arrhythmias like QT prolongation.
- In patients with existing heart conditions, Darvocet carried an alarmingly high chance of life-threatening complications.
- Even healthy individuals showed troubling cardiac effects after normal Darvocet use.
Addiction Potential
Beyond the heart risks, Darvocet also demonstrated a high potential for abuse and addiction due to its opioid component. Patients frequently developed dependence, struggled with withdrawal symptoms when stopping the drug, and suffered overdoses from misuse.
At River Rocks Recovery, our accredited addiction treatment programs provide comprehensive care for those battling opioid use disorder. From partial hospitalization to outpatient services utilizing evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), we help patients achieve lasting sobriety.
Darvocet Safety Concerns
Dangerous Combination
Darvocet contains propoxyphene – a synthetic opioid painkiller similar to codeine. When combined with acetaminophen, the risks increase significantly. High doses can lead to fatal overdoses, heart arrhythmias, and seizures.
FDA Warning
In 2010, the FDA warned that Darvocet’s risks outweighed its benefits due to potential heart issues. In 2011, it was pulled from the U.S. market. Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and tremors further complicate addiction recovery.
Darvocet Treatment and Recovery
Personalized Treatment Plans
Addiction therapy and treatment begins with a thorough assessment to understand your unique situation and needs. Addiction specialists then create a personalized plan combining medical detox, therapy, counseling, support groups and other services. This multi-pronged approach gives you the best chance at achieving long-term sobriety.
Continuing Care
Recovery is an ongoing journey. Our alumni program provides a robust aftercare support system with peer groups, sober living resources, counseling and more. This continuing care helps prevent relapse by addressing triggers and providing the tools needed to maintain sobriety.
Conclusion
You don’t have to continue suffering from Darvocet addiction. The caring professionals at River Rocks Recovery in Middletown, Ohio can help you take back control of your life. With comprehensive treatment programs like partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient care, individual counseling and more, River Rocks provides the evidence-based therapy and support you need to overcome dependency. Cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and other proven techniques will equip you with healthy coping strategies. By enrolling in one of River Rocks’ acclaimed treatment plans today, you can finally break free of the vicious cycle of Darvocet abuse. A brighter future full of promise awaits you. Contact River Rocks today at (888) 905-6281 to learn more about how their compassionate team can help you heal, recover and thrive.
FAQs About Darvocet Addiction and Treatment
What is Darvocet?
Darvocet is a combination medication containing propoxyphene and acetaminophen. It was prescribed to treat mild to moderate pain. However, Darvocet was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2010 due to its potential for misuse, addiction, and life-threatening side effects.
Is Darvocet addictive?
Yes, Darvocet is highly addictive due to the opioid propoxyphene. With continued use, dependence and addiction can develop rapidly. Attempting to quit Darvocet “cold turkey” can result in severe withdrawal symptoms.
What are signs of Darvocet addiction?
- Continued use despite negative consequences
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- “Doctor shopping” for multiple prescriptions
- Isolating from family/friends
- Mood swings, irritability
- Drowsiness, confusion
How is Darvocet addiction treated?
At River Rocks Recovery, we offer comprehensive treatment programs to overcome Darvocet addiction:
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP) for intensive treatment
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP) with therapy and counseling
- Outpatient program for ongoing recovery support
- Evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and individual counseling
