Heart Attack
A recent study confirmed that propoxyphene, the active ingredient in Darvocet and Darvon can interfere with the electrical activity of an otherwise healthy heart, causing heart abnormalities, an irregular heart rate ( arrhythmia) and other cardiac issues serious enough to cause heart attack and death. Experts have estimated that thousands of people have died from these Darvocet side effects.
Understanding the symptoms of a Darvocet heart attack
It is of critical importance that people taking Darvocet, or who have taken Darvocet understand the symptoms of drug-induced heart attacks and the risk factors for developing a heart attack in order to:
- Seek an alternative means of pain management, especially if they have a high risk of developing a heart attack.
- Recognize the symptoms of a heart attack in order to seek emergency medical care.
The symptoms of a Darvocet heart attack
People who are taking Darvocet and experience any of the following side effects may be developing a heart attack and should seek emergency medical help immediately:
- abdominal pain
- heartburn
- chest pain
- chest pressure
- discomfort or pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder or upper back
- dizziness
- faintness or light-headedness
- feelings of extreme anxiety or nervousness
- inexplicable fatigue or weakness
- nausea or vomiting
- shortness of breath
- excessive sweating
Risk factors for Darvocet heart attacks
As is the case with any medication, some people will be in a higher risk group than others for developing a heart attack. People with the highest risk of developing heart rate changes and a heart attack include those who have a medical history of:
- prior heart attacks
- heart disease
- depression
- high cholesterol
- hypertension (high blood pressure)
- metabolic syndrome (a condition whose symptoms include abdominal fat and high blood sugar)
- smoking
- Unhealthy lifestyle habits that include diets high in fat, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, and not exercising regularly
If you experience a heart attack
If you think you are experiencing a heart attack you should immediately seek medical care to save your life. Your follow-up should include all recommended lifestyle changes and prescribed treatments to restore your health and prevent future heart problems.
