Once sold to treat mild to moderate pain, Darvocet is a narcotic drug made with Propoxyphene and Acetaminophen, which is the active ingredient in Tylenol.

Due to a multitude of deaths related to Darvocet and another narcotic called Darvon, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned 

Propoxyphene-based in 2010, thus taking Darvocet off the market. Today, we’re going to dive into Darvocet addiction and the dangers this drug poses to users. 

What Is Darvocet?

Also known as dextropropoxyphene, Darvocet is an opioid analgesic that was once used to treat mild to moderate pain that has antitussive (cough suppressant) and local anesthetic effects. Darvocet is made of two medications: propoxyphene and acetaminophen, the former of which were banned in 2010 by the FDA. 

Darvocet was once prescribed as a controlled-release pill that would dissolve into the bloodstream when taken by mouth. Due to alarming side effects related to propoxyphene, such as abnormal heart rhythms and seizures, Darvocet was taken off the market and banned from prescription. 

But is Darvocet addictive? Yes, like other opioids, another danger of using Darvocet is the drug’s large potential for abuse and addiction. 

While its exact mechanism of action is unknown, Darvocet is believed to affect the brain by stimulating opioid receptors. When users take it, they experience increased tolerance to pain, sedation, and slowed breathing. 

• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Euphoria
• Sedation
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Upset stomach
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Dry mouth

Darvocet can also interact with other similar medications to produce extreme sedation, sleepiness, and especially difficulty breathing. A Darvocet overdose may occur if the user takes a higher dose than prescribed or than the body could manage, which could be fatal. 

Although Darvocet is no longer available for prescription, generic versions may be available, as well as other types of opioids that are just as addictive. If you’re taking any opioid medication, do so exactly as directed by your physician to avoid complications. 

Can You Get High On Darvocet?

The acetaminophen in Darvocet acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer, further contributing to propoxyphene’s narcotic properties. However, as with other opioids, Darvocet’s ability to stimulate opioid receptors also gives it the ability to stimulate the release of dopamine, producing a sense of euphoria as well as pain relief. 

So yes, you can get high on Darvocet. People who engaged in Darvocet abuse may have taken the drug in higher doses than prescribed to experience euphoria and sedation. 

They may have also mixed this medication with other depressant medications or alcohol to increase its impact on the central nervous system. Mixing drugs is a very dangerous and deadly decision. This progressive addictive behavior will also lead to drug substitution when it is difficult to find Darvocet like illicit opioids and other prescription opioids. 

Illicit opioids like heroin and desomorphine (Krokodil) have also affected numerous communities and have contributed to the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States. 

Signs of Darvocet Abuse and Addiction

Since Darvocet is no longer available for prescription, the use of this medication is a primary indicator of a more serious problem. Another obvious sign of Darvocet abuse is the development of tolerance or the need for higher doses to experience the same effects. 

Opioid addiction is marked by physical and psychological dependence, which can develop quickly. Some common signs of Darvocet abuse and addiction include: 

• Strong cravings for the drug
• Displaying an obsession with Darvocet 
• Engaging in dangerous behaviors like stealing or pawning stolen items to buy more of the drug
• Reduced performance and attention to responsibilities at work, school, or home
• Isolation from loved ones
• Sudden and drastic mood swings
• Over-sleeping

Those with a Darvocet addiction will require more of the drug to experience the same high as their use progresses, leading to physical dependence that’s marked by withdrawal symptoms. Eventually, the brain craves the drug to feel “normal,” and the individual may undergo uncomfortable withdrawals when they go without it. 

Because Darvocet may be more difficult to obtain than other commonly used opioids, the individual may turn to drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone, or even heroin to satisfy their cravings. If your loved one has exhibited any of the signs above, don’t wait to get help. Opioids are highly addictive drugs that can be difficult to quit using without the help of a professional. 

Darvocet Addiction Treatment 

Breaking an addiction to Darvocet or other opioids can be difficult, but recovery is possible with the right resources and treatment. Our Milford treatment center offers opioid addiction treatment essential for patients who are addicted to medications like Darvocet or other opiates. 

We also offer medical detox in Delaware that’s designed to slowly wean patients off drugs. During detox, patients receive 24-hour care from our medical staff as well as medication treatment (as needed) to reduce discomfort from withdrawal symptoms. 

Our Milford rehab also provides residential addiction treatment as well as aftercare services to ensure that patients remain focused on their recovery in and out of rehab. Sobriety is possible even for those with the toughest of addictions. 

To learn more about our Delaware addiction treatment, call Banyan Treatment Centers today at 888-280-4763. Our specialists are here and waiting for your call.