Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PENTAZOCINE w/NALOXONE - ORAL

(pen-TAZZ-oh-seen WITH nal-OX-own)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Talwin NX

WARNING: Take pentazocine w/naloxone only by mouth. Severe, possibly fatal reactions (e.g., blood clot of the lungs, body sores) can occur if injected or used with other habit-forming substances.

Uses

This medication is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

How To Use

To prevent upset stomach, take this with food or milk. Pain medications work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, the medication is not as effective in relieving it. Take this medication only by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well. Consult your doctor if this medication is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

Side Effects

May cause constipation, lightheadedness, disturbed dreams, vision changes, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea or flushing. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: an irregular heartbeat, facial swelling, fainting, anxiety, hallucinations, tremors. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, lung problems, asthma, severe diarrhea, colitis, seizures, substance abuse history, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication is safe when used orally (by mouth). Severe, possibly fatal reactions may occur if this oral medication is misused by injecting it. Use caution performing activities requiring alertness (such as driving) if this medication makes you dizzy or drowsy. Alcoholic beverages can add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this medication and increase stomach irritation. Ask your doctor for advice about the safe use of alcohol. Before having surgery, especially gall bladder surgery, tell the doctor that you take pentazocine. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: other narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), cimetidine, sibutramine. Also report use of medications that make you drowsy, such as: sedatives, tranquilizers, drowsiness-causing antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), antidepressants, alcohol. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.

Notes

To prevent constipation, increase your intake of fiber, drink plenty of water and exercise. Stool softeners may be helpful. Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.