Darvocet Recall

On November 19, 2010, the FDA announced a voluntary recall of all products containing the drug propoxyphene due to many serious health risks including abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks and even death.   Two major drugs which were affected by this recall were Darvon, and a variation of Darvon, called Darvocet, which combines proxphene and acetaminophen.  It has been estimated that approximately 22 million people in the United States have used Darvocet or Darvon.  What’s disturbing is that the recall of this popular drug was overlooked by many. 

Darvocet / Darvon Recall

Darvocet is one of the 25 most prescribed medications and despite the recall, the US Drug Watchdog fears that tens of thousands of United States citizens still use these medications.  The group is naming their number one goal as indentifying every person in the U.S. who has taken the recalled Darvon or Darvocet and then developed heart conditions, such as heart attacks, heart rhythm issues, or other severe complications; the number is feared to be in the 100,000’s.  

Typical Side Effects of Darvon or Darvocet Users

Darvon and Darvocet may cause a number of severe side-effects, which could lead to serious personal injury or even untimely death.  Individuals who have taken these drugs may experience any of the following conditions:

• Heart attack

• Heart arrhythmia

• Overdose

• Suicide

• Sudden death

A Brief History of Propoxyphene

Darvon was first introduced in 1957.  During its history, it has come under fire by several public safety groups who found that the benefits of taking the medication do not outweigh the risks involved.  The first major event was in 1978 when Public Citizen petitioned the FDA twice for the removal of proxpoxyphone products from the market.   In 2004, propoxyphone was banned in the United Kingdom.  Europe followed suite, banning the drug nearly 1 ½ years ago.   In January 2009, and FDA advisory panel recommended the drug be banned in the US, but no action was taken. 

An Experienced Defective Product Attorney Can Help!

A heart condition can be life-threatening and can drastically change your life. If you or someone you love has been injured due to Darvocet or Darvon, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.  If you have suffered due to recalled Darvocet or Darvon, contact the Southern California defective product lawyers of Lessem & Newstat, LLP today!  

Call us at (800) 295-1054 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation.  We will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve, and strive diligently to protect your legal rights.