Torsade de Pointes
Sometimes referred to simply as torsades or TdP, Darvocet Torsades de Pointes is a kind of lethal Darvocet heart arrhythmia that displays a unique signature when viewed through an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG).
All propoxyphene based drugs including Darvocet, Darvon, and other generics were recalled by the FDA in November 2010 after decades of attempts by public interest groups to have the drugs banned. These groups all raised similar allegations of the drugs’ ability to interfere with the ion channels responsible for regulating the electrical activity of the heart.
Darvocet Torsades de Pointes is considered a ventricular tachycardia (V-Tach). Like any Darvocet heart arrhythmia, TdP originates in the ventricles, or the lower chambers of the heart.
Symptoms of Darvocet Torsades de Pointes
Episodes of TdP usually last between 5 to 15 seconds, twisting the “QRS complex” around the baseline or isoelectric line of an electrocardiogram- the hallmark of this Darvocet side effect. The effect creates an undulating wave-like pattern on the EKG.
Longer episodes of Darvocet Torsades de Pointes (in excess of 15 seconds) can lead to ventricular fibrillation, which in turn can stop the heartbeat and cause a sudden fatal heart attack.
Diagnosis is often difficult to pinpoint as symptoms are often confused with a range of psychosomatic and anxiety disorders and even basic muscle spasms.
Treatment of Darvocet Torsade de Pointes
Short term treatment of Torsades de Pointes includes resuscitation, defibrillation and intravenous magnesium.
Long-term options may involve taking medication such as Propranolol, a beta-adrenergic antagonist, or having a pacemaker or other cardioverter-defibrillator implanted.
Developments in Darvocet litigation
People who develop Darvocet Torsades de Pointes and other arrhythmias or heart abnormalities while using Darvocet or Darvon may be eligible to join the growing litigation against the makers of these dangerous drugs and win compensation for the life-threatening Darvocet side effect. Patients are encouraged to consult an experienced Darvocet lawyer about regarding their experience with this dangerous medication and consider filing a Darvocet lawsuit.
