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Northpoint Seattle’s outpatient treatment program is located in beautiful Seattle, Washington, and we work to help the surrounding communities.
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Seattle, WA 98133, United States
Darvon Abuse Vs. Addiction: Is a Washington State Rehab Needed to Recover?
Darvon is a drug that people in WA State once abused often. In fact, many people formed addictions to it. While that is really no longer the case – at least not statistically – that does not mean this drug is not dangerous.
Darvon was discontinued in 2010 because it was believed to lead to serious heart problems. It – along with Darvocet – was often prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. In fact, it was typically the first choice of most doctors because it was considered to be the safest and most effective option.
Today, people have many other drug options available to them. But Darvon may still be able to be accessed on the street in some parts of Washington. Also, it is still available online for purchase. Some people are still abusing it, and we want to get the word out about how dangerous it can be.
It is important to know the effects of Darvon on the mind and body. People with addictions to this drug may have a difficult time admitting that they need help. But going to a quality drug treatment plan can change a person’s life forever.
Do You Have Questions About Addiction? Call Our Recovery Experts Now.
Is Darvon an Opiate Drug?
Darvon is a weaker opioid drug that affects the mu opioid receptors in the body. It may also be called propoxyphene or dextropropoxyphene, according to Wikipedia.
This medication was once heavily prescribed to help with problems of acute, moderate or severe pain. It works fairly quickly, with users seeing a diminishing of pain in as little as 20 minutes.
Also, propoxyphene can be used recreationally. If it is, it can lead to dependency and addiction. Ironically, in its purest form, it can be used to help with withdrawal symptoms in opioid addicts.
How Do Opioids Like Darvon Work?
Opioids have a long and storied history of being used to treat pain. And as far back as 3400 B.C., humans were already using it as a medicinal herb.
But how do these powerful drugs work?
On a molecular level, the power behind opioids lies in how they interact with special cells in the brain and body known as opioid receptors. One type of receptor in particular (the mu opioid receptor) is responsible for helping regulate how the body responds to pain. And when drugs like Darvon stimulate these receptors, they can effectively block pain signals to a surprising degree.
Have a look at the video below for an even more in-depth explanation
While opioids are excellent at treating acute and chronic pain, they’re also incredibly addictive. As the body becomes more and more used to their presence, it starts to change the way that it works on a cellular level. And eventually, it actually is unable to function normally without these drugs.
The opioid epidemic began in the 1990s when physicians started prescribing prescription opioids at an alarming rate. Part of this surge was due to aggressive marketing on the part of the pharmaceutical companies. Another factor was that opioids were sold as “non-habit-forming” pain medications.
This misrepresentation of the drugs by these pharmaceutical companies led to massive rises in opioid addiction among patients across the country. And when regulations tightened after these drugs were exposed to be addictive, many of these patients turned to the cheaper and more readily available alternative opioid – heroin.
By 2013, a new opioid called fentanyl was showing up in heroin batches more and more. And since this drug was 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, just a small amount could lead to a fatal overdose.
Today, around 130 Americans die every single day because of an opioid overdose. And in 2017 alone, nearly 48 thousand people were killed by opioids – a rate 6 times higher than fatal opioid overdoses in 1999.
Darvon, Darvocet, and Darvocet N are all medications that contain propoxyphene. They are the same drug under different brand names.
Darvocet is slightly different in that it also contains acetaminophen. This drug helps strengthen the effects of propoxyphene. But it can also lead to additional problems when it comes to abuse since it can end up being toxic to the liver.
Other drugs containing propoxyphene include Darvon N and Dolene.
For years, Darvocet was considered the go-to pain medication most patients received. It was first patented in the 1950s. However, there have been serious concerns about the drug's safety ever since then.
Chronic pain medication users often wonder why Darvocet was taken off the market. It was a drug that worked well, but its negative effects were much more concerning.
According to WebMD, every drug containing propoxyphene was banned in 2010. Studies show that this medication produced serious heart side effects for healthy individuals. These side effects were even evident among those taking normal dosages.
Taking Darvocet can result in fatal heart rhythm abnormalities. This discovery comes after Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals, who made this medication, conducted their own tests at the behest of the FDA after serious concerns. The ban occurred six years after it was banned in the UK, resulting in thousands of deaths in the U.S.
The drug is so deadly, in fact, that an FDA study showed that more deaths were connected to propoxyphene (16 per 100,000) than other more notorious opioids like tramadol (10 per 100,000) and hydrocodone (8 per 100,000).
While the ban itself was certainly the right decision, the FDA has faced harsh criticism for acting far too late. And as consumers rights groups have pointed out, if they had banned the drug earlier, literally thousands of lives could have been saved.
What is the Propoxyphene High Like?
Propoxyphene's high effects are similar to other types of opiates. However, they may be a bit milder. Sometimes people choose to take this medication when they're new to using opiate drugs. It will produce a sensation of euphoria and sedation which can make you feel quite relaxed. However, users on forums like Bluelight and Reddit have also reported feeling dizzy and nauseous.
In order to get a better high from propoxyphene, higher doses are generally needed. Of course, with higher doses come more risks. Many users feel that the risk of heart problems isn't worth taking more of this medication. The propoxyphene recreational dose can be anywhere from 100mg to 400mg. Everyone differs as far as how much it takes to get high.
Signs That Someone May Be High on Opioids
Not everyone will experience a Darvon high the same way. And that can make things tricky when you’re trying to spot the signs of someone who’s high on it.
According to MedlinePlus, though, there are a few physical symptoms to watch out for. These include:
- Altered mental status, such as confusion, delirium, or decreased awareness or responsiveness
- Breathing problems (breathing may slow and eventually stop)
- Extreme sleepiness or loss of alertness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Small pupils
Warnings for this Medication
The fact that the drug is currently banned seems to do little to dissuade people from using it. There are those who believe it does wonders for their pain. There are also those who choose to misuse it to get high.
It's possible to get Darvon on the street, but users need to heed the drug's warnings, which include:
- The risk of serious heart problems
- The risk of death
- The risk of a quick, fatal overdose
- The risk of suicidal thoughts or actions
- The risk of negative interactions with other drugs or medications
Just like so many other prescription medications, using Darvon with other drugs can cause serious side effects and negative interactions. Some of these can even be deadly. Below are just a few of the most notable interactions involving propoxyphene drugs from WebMD.
Be aware though, this list is not comprehensive. As Darvon is now fully banned, no one should be using this drug. But if you do, always check with a doctor before mixing it with other medications.
Serious Interactions
- Propoxyphene; Tramadol/Rasagiline; Selegiline
- QT Prolonging Agents like Amifampridine, Dronedarone, Artemether-Lumefantrine, Disopyramide, Cisapride, Sertindole, Droperidol, Levomethadyl, Sparfloxacin, Halofantrine, Pimozide, Bepridil
- Opioid Analgesics/Naltrexone
- Propoxyphene/Ritonavir
Moderate Interactions
- Propoxyphene/Carbamazepine
- Selected Opioids/MAOIs
- Agents That May Cause Respiratory Depression/Sodium Oxybate
- QT Prolonging Agents like Dofetilide, Saquinavir, Vinflunine, Quinine, Iloperidone, Asenapine, Toremifene, Tetrabenazine, Zuclopenthixol, Nilotinib, Paliperidone
- Ivabradine
- Amiodarone
- Mesoridazine
- Thioridazine
Mild Interactions
- Selected Opioid Analgesics/Cimetidine
- Opioids like Buprenorphine, Butorphanol, Nalbuphine
- Benzodiazepines
- Sleep Drugs
- Muscle Relaxants
- Antipsychotics
- Phenothiazines
- Agents with Hyponatremia Risk/Desmopression
- Gabapentinoids
- QT Prolonging Agents like Eribulin, Ciprofloxacin, Romidepsin, Pazopanib, telavancin, Lapatinib, Dasatinib, Posaconazole, Ranolazine, Levofloxacin, Haloperidol, Nalidixic Acid, Norfloxacin, Gemifloxacin, Formoterol, Methadone, Apomorphine, Propafenone, Dolasetron, Risperidone, Sotalol, Moxifloxacin, Gatifloxacin, Arsenic
- Propoxyphene; Tramadol/SLT Anticoagulants (Vit K Antag)
Is There a Propoxyphene Replacement on the Market?
Experts indicate that the best replacement for propoxyphene drugs may be NSAIDS. These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Medications like ibuprofen and naproxen work very well as replacements for Darvon and similar drugs.
They also don’t carry the same addictive potential as Darvon and similar drugs. But even still, that doesn’t mean that over-the-counter drugs can’t be abused too.
For those who need stronger pain relief, there are many opiate medications that are available. For example, Vicodin, Oxycodone or Percocet are all legal, and can be effective when used appropriately.
However, most physicians will prescribe opioids as a last resort given their addictive and deadly potential.
What is Darvocet N Abuse?
Distinguishing between abuse and addiction is important. Because not all abuse indicates an underlying addiction and vice versa.
Abuse is essentially using a substance in a way that it isn’t intended to be used. For illicit drugs, this means using the substance at all. But for legal drugs like prescription medications, things get a bit trickier.
For these drugs, abuse means taking the drug in a way that it wasn’t prescribed. This might include taking higher doses, administering it improperly (e.g., snorting or injecting it), or mixing it with other substances like alcohol.
But since Darvon is actually banned in the United States and has no more medical purpose, using it at all is considered abuse. And this, of course, includes taking the drug recreationally.
Addiction, on the other hand, is defined as a “chronic and relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.”
There are two main characteristics to be aware of here. First, addiction involves compulsive drug seeking and use. That means that addicts cannot control their substance use, try as they might. And second, use continues despite the negative impacts that come about as a result.
Addiction, then, is more of a behavioral trend rather than a single instance. As such, it is possible to abuse a drug without necessarily being addicted. And on top of that, patients can in fact get addicted to a medication without necessarily abusing it.
How Does a Darvon Addiction Occur?
A Darvon addiction can result when someone abuses this medication for too long. It's not uncommon for people to think it's not possible to become an addict when using this drug. They think that because it was once prescribed, it's fairly safe, even if it is banned. This simply isn't true.
When you take Darvon, it changes your brain chemistry. You begin to produce higher levels of serotonin and dopamine. This results in a need for more of these chemicals. As time passes, your brain stops making them because the drugs have taken over the job.
It's important to note that an addiction to Darvon can happen at any time once abuse begins. It can take weeks, or it can take years.
Darvocet N Side Effects to Keep in Mind
Taking this medication- even at a formerly recommended dose- is going to produce side effects. This is something you need to be aware of.
Common side effects of Darvocet N and other similar medications include:
- Becoming extremely lightheaded
- Feeling very dizzy
- Getting a headache
- Having blurry vision
- Becoming sedated
- Nausea and vomiting
Of course, we also need to include the chance of heart palpitations and other abnormalities. If you're currently taking Darvocet N, you need to know the risks involved.
The Risk of Overdose
Opioid overdoses are no small matter. And in fact, they regularly kill as many as 130 Americans every single day.
And when opioids like Darvon are combined with other drugs like benzodiazepines, alcohol, and other central nervous system depressants, this risk of overdose is even higher.
That’s why it’s so important to call 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect an overdose. The medical professionals here will be able to provide you with life-saving advice and send an ambulance to your location where EMTs may administer naloxone or other treatments.
In the end, acting quickly is key to the absolute best outcomes. And the faster you can spot the signs of an overdose, the more quickly you can get the professional help that’s so essential.
There are a few different symptoms to watch out for if you think someone is overdosing on Darvon.
According to MedlinePlus, these include:
Eyes, Ears, Nose, & Throat
- Hearing loss
- Pinpoint pupils
Heart & Blood Vessels
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Low blood pressure
- Weak pulse
Lungs
- Breathing problems
- Breathing slow, labored, or shallow
- No breathing
Muscles
- Muscle spasticity
- Muscle damage from being immobile while in a coma
Nervous System
- Coma
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Seizures
Skin
- Cyanosis (blue fingernails or lips)
- Jaundice (turning yellow)
- Rash
Stomach & Intestines
- Nausea, vomiting
- Spasms of the stomach or intestines (abdominal cramps)
Quitting This Medication & Common Propoxyphene Withdrawals
Sometimes, for one reason or another, people choose to quit taking propoxyphene. They may not have realized they were addicted to it, or that they could become addicts. Either way, cold turkey quitting is not recommended.
Withdrawal from propoxyphene can be quite severe. This drug may be mild, but the withdrawal symptoms are not. Common withdrawal symptoms with this medication include:
- Extreme diarrhea
- Muscle aches in the body
- Painful headaches
- Feeling nauseous
- Extreme weight loss
- Shaking uncontrollably
- Cravings for the medication
- Symptoms of depression or anxiety
And like many other addictive substances, these withdrawals may be so intense that users end up relapsing simply to get some kind of release from these symptoms.
As such, finding ways to reduce the severity of the withdrawal period can go a long way towards promoting long-term sobriety.
Do You Need Rehab if You're Abusing Darvocet?
Rehabilitation is the second stage of any successful recovery plan. And while it is more focused on treating the mental side of addiction rather than the physical one handled by detox, rehab is actually just as essential.
In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) points out that without rehabilitation too, detoxification alone does little to change the risk of future drug use.
That’s because rehab uses evidence-based treatments and strategies to address and even reverse the compulsive drug-seeking of addiction. And unless this aspect is dealt with, it doesn’t matter if a recovering addict doesn’t experience any physical withdrawals – they’ll still be compelled to use again. And that means relapse.
Rehab, then, is a critical part of getting clean.
There are three major types of rehab programs: inpatient, outpatient, and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).
- Inpatient – Usually around 30 days long, these programs require patients to actually stay at a treatment facility. And while this allows for a higher level of care, it can be difficult to attend work or school at the same time.
- Outpatient – A more flexible option, outpatient services involve treatment sessions that happen in the evenings. This allows patients to spend their days and nights however they please. However, that can also translate to a higher risk of relapse too. They’re usually around 3 months long.
- IOPs – A step up from outpatient, treatment sessions in these programs usually take place in the evenings too. But instead, sessions are longer and occur more frequently throughout the week. They’re also about 3 months long.
Along with a higher success rate and a reduced chance of relapse, there are a couple of other reasons to partner with a professional addiction treatment program. Below are some of the most important.
- They can connect patients with powerful medications like Vivitrol that can make quitting much easier.
- They may be able to treat co-occurring disorders like anxiety or depression.
- They often get to the root of addiction, helping patients address emotional trauma that may contribute to substance abuse.
- They usually provide a wide variety of amenities that make getting clean more comfortable.
- They will typically connect patients with others just like them, helping to weave a social support network that can end up lasting a lifetime.
Do Rehab Centers in Washington State Offer Treatment for Darvon Addiction?
Even though Darvon addiction is no longer as common as it once was, it is still possible to get treatment for it. This drug is an opioid, which means that the addiction will respond to the methods that are used for other, similar drugs.
As we mentioned earlier, there are several steps that people must go through to stop using Darvon. The first step is to go through detox, which helps to cleanse the body of harmful toxins. The next step is to move on to a quality rehabilitation facility for therapy. After that, a high-quality follow-up schedule should be put into place.
People who live in Washington State have many different options available to them for Darvon addiction treatment. There are hundreds of choices, but that does not mean the decision will be an easy one. Everyone who is in need of treatment should take the time to consider what type of program they want. Help is available for this from many facilities because most offer free addiction assessments.
The SAMHSA treatment locator tool can be a great resource for finding rehab options. It allows people to choose the area they desire and find the right facility to meet their needs.
About Our Outpatient Rehab Program in WA State
At Northpoint Seattle, we have one of the best outpatient rehab programs in the state. We have two locations; one is in Seattle and one is in Bellevue. This allows us to provide the convenient care that our clients have come to depend on us to offer.
Our clients benefit from having access to three different levels of care. We offer an intensive outpatient program, a traditional outpatient rehab, and partial hospitalization. This can even allow our clients to start at a higher level of care, and then progress into a lower level.
We know the importance of making treatment affordable here at Northpoint Seattle. That is why we participate with so many health insurance plans. In fact, many of our clients find that their treatment is covered in full.
Locating the Best Darvon Rehab Center for Your Recovery
The key to overcoming any substance use disorder isn’t so much about finding the closest facility. Instead, it’s more about finding the right one. And that means finding out which programs offer the services and amenities you need to stay comfortable, supported, and sober.
But finding the right facility isn’t always simple. There are a few things you can do to make the process easier. Have a look at the video below for more information.
Northpoint Seattle: The Best Treatment Service in The Pacific Northwest
At Northpoint Seattle, we know that overcoming a Darvon substance abuse problem is no easy feat. It takes strength of character, dedication, support, and know-how. And without each of these qualities, recovering addicts will be doomed to relapsing, whether they like it or not.
That’s we pride ourselves in offering the absolute best treatment services in the Pacific Northwest. Our comfortable yet modern facility in Bellevue provides a range of amenities for our clients to make recovery a much more pleasant experience. And with one of the highest staff-to-patient ratios in the area, you can always rest assured that you’re getting the level of attention you deserve.
Plus, we’re also nationally accredited by the Joint Commission – a true testament to our commitment to quality treatment.
You or your loved one don’t have to suffer through Darvon addiction. And with the right help, a full recovery is possible – and it’s easier than you might think.
So, get in touch today to start your journey towards sobriety now.
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