On November 19, 2010, , an opioid medication approved to relieve pain.  The FDA has also informed the generic manufacturers of propoxyphene-containing products of Zanodyne”s decision and requested that they voluntarily remove their products as well.

The FDA made the decision to recommend a recall of the drug from the US market after a recent study showed that it causes potentially serious and even fatal heart-related side effects, such as abnormal heart rhythms.  In fact, a recent study confirmed that propoxyphene causes signficant changes to the electrical rhythms of the heart even when taken at recommended doses.  Moreover, a patient”s risk for adverse side effects can increase with small changes such as deyhdration, a change in medication, or decreased kidney functions.   

The FDA has been investigating the safety and efficacy of the drug since the 1970s after it received two citizen petitions for its removal from the market. The drug has already been banned in the United Kingdom since 2005. The entire European Union banned the drug in 2009.

Not only does this drug cause heart problems in certain individuals, but it also is highly addictive and can lead to death by overdose.

If you or a loved one has suffered from the side effects of Darvon or Darvocet, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact the defective drug attorneys at Strom Law Firm, LLC today for a free consultation to discuss the facts of your case. We offer flexible appointment options.