Pentazocine And Naloxone Description

Generic Name : PENTAZOCINE and NALOXONE

Pronunciation : (pen taz' oh seen) (nal ox' one)

Trade Name(s) : Dolowin, Fortwin, Fortwin, Penzyl

Why it is prescribed: The combination of pentazocine and naloxone is used to relieve moderate or severe pain, particularly cancer pain and pain after surgery, including dental surgery.

When it is to be taken: This medication usually is taken every three of four hours as needed. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. This drug starts to work in 15 to 30 minutes and goes on working for three hours or longer.

How it should be taken: The combination of pentazocine and naloxone comes in tablet form. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Pentazocine can be habit-forming. Do not take this drug more often or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to, and do not take more than the amount prescribed at each dose.
2. Do not increase your dose without consulting your doctor. If the medication does not relieve your pain, contact your doctor.
3. The drug may decrease mental alertness and physical coordination. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how it affects you.
4. Tell your doctor if you smoke or if you change your smoking habits while taking this drug. Your dose may need to be adjusted.

Side Effects :
1. Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness. Lie down for a while. Take the drug with food or milk if you experience nausea or vomiting. If these effects continue, contact your doctor.
2. Nervousness, apprehension, depression, floating feeling, headache, weakness, faintness, disturbed dreams, insomnia, constipation, sweating, flushing of the skin, blurred or double vision, dry mouth, altered taste. If these effects persist or become severe, contact your doctor.
3. Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing; rash, itching, and swelling of face; fast heartbeat; hallucinations; mental confusion. Contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding or if you have kidney, liver, or lung disease or asthma, tell your doctor before taking pentazocine and naloxone. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, notify your doctor promptly.
2. Before you take this drug, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially sleeping pills, tranquilizers, sedatives, medication for depression, narcotics, and other pain relievers.
3. Do not take any medication while you are taking pentazocine and naloxone unless your doctor tells you that you may.
4. Alcoholic beverages can add to the effects of this medication, causing dizziness, drowsiness, and stomach irritation. Ask your doctor for advice about the safe use of alcohol.
5. Before having surgery, especially gallbladder surgery, tell the doctor that you take pentazocine and naloxone.
6. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
2. Store it at room temperature.