Darvocet (trade name Darvon) is a mild painkiller containing propossyphene and acetaminophen. Last month the European Union's FDA equivilant decided to phase out the use of all drugs conttaining propoxyphene. Activists have petitioned the American FDA to ban prodicts containing propoxyphene such as Darvocet and in January an expert committee voted 14 to 12 to withdraw the drug. However, the FDA still feels Darvocet is useful enough to remain on the market.
The drug may cause "QT prolongation" of the heart which can lead to an arrhythmia and potentially death. From 1969 to 2005, 91 deaths attributed to the drug were reported to the FDA. The FDA will now require a warning on the box regarding potential hazards when taking the medication.
If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of taking Darvocet, please contact Hillyard, Wahlberg, Kudla & Sloane, LLP today for a free consultation regarding your legal rights.