Propoxyphene is an opioid drug that acts as a narcotic pain reliever. The United States Food and Drug Administration, the FDA, states the drug has been approved for use since 1957. However, concerns were raised by the FDA in July 2009 regarding the drug's dosage, geriatric use and addiction potential, which have caused it to come under scrutiny. Certain side effects of the drug may be fatal.
Cardiac Disorders
Propoxyphene may cause cardiac arrest. This differs from a heart attack, where blood flow to part of the heart may be slowed or stopped. The Texas Heart Institute states that in cardiac arrest, which is sometimes termed sudden cardiac death, the heart stops beating and the victim may die within minutes. Other cardiac problems from taking this central nervous system depressant include arrhythmia, which is any abnormal heart rhythm, and tachycardia, which is a heart rate faster than 100 beats per minute. RxList.com states the drug may also cause bradycardia, which is when the heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute.
Respiratory Arrest
Taking propoxyphene may cause death by respiratory arrest. This may occur through intentional or accidental overdose. No more than four doses of the 65-mg tablet should be taken in 24 hours, but patients seeking more pain relief have taken more than the recommended dose and have died. RxList.com states the drug may easily become toxic and cause breathing to stop.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Propoxyphene may cause a variety of gastrointestinal problems. A patient may experience stomach problems ranging from mild nausea to severe vomiting. Drugs.com states the user may also become constipated when taking the drug.
Dizziness
Dizziness is a side effect of propoxyphene. The lightheadedness that comes with taking the drug may pass, especially if the user reclines after feeling the effects. The drug may also cause the user to become drowsy, according to Drugs.com; therefore, patients shouldn't drive or operate machinery while taking the drug until they know how it affects them.
Hip Fractures
Propoxyphene use may cause hip fractures among the elderly. Drugs.com states that the geriatric population seems especially sensitive to the effects of the drug, with the incidence rate of hip fractures being 60 percent more likely among elderly persons using this drug.
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