The FDA has ordered manufacturers of Darvon and Darvocet (painkillers containing propoxyphene) to stop selling the drugs after receiving new clinical data showing that the drug puts patients at risk of potentially serious or even fatal heart rhythm abnormalities. As a result of these data, combined with other information, including new epidemiological data, the agency concluded that the risks of the medication outweigh the benefits.
Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals Inc. which makes Darvon and Darvocet, the brand version of the prescription pain medication propoxyphene, has agreed to withdraw the drugs, and manufacturers of generic versions are expected to do the same.
The FDA recommends that Patients who are currently taking the drug should contact their doctor as soon as possible to discuss switching to another pain management therapy.
Click here to read the full FDA press release.
