Darvocet was once a popular opioid used in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. This narcotic pain reliever boasts a chemical structure similar to methadone, but it poses much more immediate dangers.
For decades, millions of people used the drug, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) eventually banned it. This decision was welcomed by medical professionals who’d been advocating for its removal since it was introduced to the general public.
Then in 2010, Darvocet was removed from all pharmacy shelves, so users could heal from the havoc it had wreaked. The drug’s potential for addiction heavily outweighed its medicinal benefits.
But when the FDA bans a drug, they can’t guarantee it will disappear. When there’s a demand for something, someone will find a way to fill that void and make money off it. Therefore, Darvocet still circulates on the black market. Online, Darvocet is sold for as little as two dollars per pill.
Darvocet is much weaker than other opioids. But if a user overdoses on it, they can be dead in less than an hour.
What is Darvocet?
The active ingredient in Darvocet is propoxyphene. Our bodies create natural opioids to block pain, but in cases of surgical procedures or minor accidents, they’re insufficient. Opioids like Darvocet bind to the natural receptors in our brains and block pain signals to provide additional relief. In Darvocet, propoxyphene is coupled with the over-the-counter pain reliever acetaminophen to increase the pain relief. This process allows the body to have a break from pain, but it also creates a euphoric high.
The street names for Darvocet include Pinks, 65s, Footballs, and Ns.
It’s generally consumed orally, but abusers crush and snort it for a faster impact. Since this drug isn’t very potent, the user must consume large doses to feel intoxicated, which can lead to a fatal overdose.
What are the Signs of Darvocet Addiction?
The early signs of drug addiction are often muted, as the brain chemistry hasn’t been corrupted by drug use. Those who consume drugs like Darvocet can still resume normal functioning, and they often show very few signs of drug abuse at first. However, the symptoms of their use will eventually become more pronounced.
After a substance abuser stumbles into the depths of addiction, the signs will be apparent. They include
- Frequent drowsiness
- Headaches
- Hallucinations
- Dizziness
- Skin Rashes
- Nausea
- Tolerance
- Jaundice
- Suicidal thoughts
- Irregular heart rates
- Chest pains
Physical symptoms will sufficiently determine if someone is abusing Darvocet. Also, once an individual has become addicted, their decisions will revolve around getting money to pay for Darvocet. Other abuse symptoms include:
- Hiding Darvocet abuse
- Becoming increasingly absent from daily obligations
- Being unable to stop using it, despite multiple attempts
- Neglecting hygiene
- Doing anything to get the drug
What’s Involved in Addiction Treatment in Darvocet?
Several factors determine the path the client will take. Before a medical professional can assess your situation and medical condition, they must follow specific guidelines to ensure long-term sobriety.
Accepting a problem and seeking treatment is the hardest step, but there will be support each step of the way.
Each path to recovery is different, but the first stop typically starts with medical detox, which eliminates all drugs from the body and allows your brain chemistry to begin the adjustment process.
Detox will mitigate the potential risks associated during this period, and it will give the client round-the-clock care. Medical detox will also provide the client with the option to take medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
At this point, your clinicians will create a medical plan for you.
If your addiction is severe enough, you’ll be placed in residential treatment. If so, you’ll live onsite for up to 90 days with 24/7 staff supervision.
The client may attend a series of therapies, including:
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Addiction education
- Family counseling
- Group therapy
- 12-step support programs
If the risk of relapse is low, the specialists will suggest outpatient treatment. The same type of therapies will be offered, but there’s no need to live onsite. This option will allow a smoother transition into the real world, which is good for students and full-time employees.
How Dangerous is Darvocet?
Darvocet is so dangerous that it was banned by the U.S. government in 2010. Notably, it causes heart problems such as arrhythmia, and it intensifies suicidal ideation.
Darvocet Abuse Statistics
- 35 million people in the U.S. have been hospitalized for using Darvocet and similar drugs.
- The director of Public Citizen’s Health Research Group claims that up to 2,000 people died as a result of taking Darvocet between the time it was banned in the U.K. and the time it was banned in the U.S.
- When Darvocet was removed from pharmacies, about 10 million people had prescriptions for it.
