Dore G M
Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, New Zealand.
Aust N Z J Psychiatry. 1996 Dec;30(6):864-6. doi: 10.3109/00048679609065057.
Dextropropoxyphene is a commonly used analgesic despite its high toxicity in overdose and potential for abuse and dependence. This case report highlights these dangers.
The case of a female who was addicted to dextropropoxyphene as an alternative to other opioids is described. Its use in high doses with other psychotropic agents resulted in adverse health effects.
The patient was treated with methadone and psychosocial interventions.
The patient reduced her drug use and experienced improved physical health and psychosocial functioning.
Caution is needed when prescribing dextropropoxyphene because of its adverse effects compared with equally efficacious analgesics.
