Acetaminophen And Propoxyphene: What Should I Discuss With My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Acetaminophen And Propoxyphene

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to acetaminophen (Tylenol) or propoxyphene.

Propoxyphene may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Acetaminophen and propoxyphene should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

Before using acetaminophen and propoxyphene, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;
• liver or kidney disease;
• a history of head injury or brain tumor;
• low blood pressure;
• a stomach or intestinal disorder;
• curvature of the spine;
• mental illness; or
• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

Tell your doctor if you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day or if you have ever had alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis). You may not be able to take medication that contains acetaminophen.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby, and could cause breathing problems or addiction/withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Acetaminophen and propoxyphene can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Last updated:	February 08, 2008