Paracetamol + Dextropropoxyphene
Indications
Paracetamol + Dextropropoxyphene is used for:
Used to relieve pain and inflammation. This drug is a combination of two pain-killing agents and is generally used in the following conditions:
Rheumatic and muscular pain
Sprains and strains
Backache
Headache
Sore throat
Toothache
Period pain
Adult Dose
Oral
Chronic pain
Adult: Each tablet/capsule containing dextropropoxyphene 32.5 mg and paracetamol 325 mg: 2 capsules 3-4 times daily. Max: 8 capsules/day.
Elderly: Dose reduction is required.
Child Dose
Renal Dose
Dose reduction is required.
Administration
May be taken with or without food.
Contra Indications
Concurrent admin with alcohol or paracetamol-containing products.
Precautions
Hepatic or renal impairment, pregnancy, lactation, children, elderly. Dextropropoxyphene may impair mental alertness and co-ordination. Not recommended for use in patients who are suicidal or prone to drug dependence.
Pregnancy-Lactation
Interactions
Dextropropoxyphene may inhibit the hepatic metabolism of antidepressants, anticonvulsants and warfarin-like drugs; paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant activity. Concurrent admin may increase serum levels of carbamazepine and result in neurotoxicity. Ritonavir may increase serum levels of dextropropoxyphene when used together.
Potentially Fatal: CNS depressant effect of dextropropoxyphene is additive with other CNS depressants, including alcohol. Concurrent admin with alcohol or paracetamol-containing products.
Adverse Effects
Side effects of Paracetamol + Dextropropoxyphene :
Dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, weakness, constipation, abdominal pain, rash, euphoria, dysphoria, visual disturbances, liver dysfunction, abuse potential.
Potentially Fatal: Hepatic necrosis (especially in chronic alcoholics).
Mechanism of Action
Dextropropoxyphene is a centrally-acting opioid analgesic. It binds to opioid receptors at several sites within the CNS.
Paracetamol is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic. In combination, they exert greater analgesic effect than that produced by either drug administered alone.