Narcotic Analgesics and Aspirin (Oral Route)

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Narcotic Analgesics and Aspirin (Oral Route)

Drug Information provided by: Micromedex

US Brand Names

  • Darvon Compound
  • Empirin w/Codeine
  • Endodan
  • Percodan
  • Synalgos-DC

Description

Combination medicines containing narcotic analgesics and aspirin are used to relieve pain. A narcotic analgesic and aspirin used together may provide better pain relief than either medicine used alone. In some cases, relief of pain may come at lower doses of each medicine.

Narcotic analgesics act in the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain. Many of their side effects are also caused by actions in the CNS. When narcotics are used for a long time, your body may get used to them so that larger amounts are needed to relieve pain. This is called tolerance to the medicine. Also, when narcotics are used for a long time or in large doses, they may become habit-forming (causing mental or physical dependence). Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the medicine.

Aspirin does not become habit-forming when taken for a long time or in large doses, but it may cause other unwanted effects if too much is taken.

These medicines are available only with your doctor's prescription. In Canada, some strengths of aspirin, codeine, and caffeine combination are available without a prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

  • Tablet
  • Capsule
Before Using

DR602297

Portions of this document last updated:

Feb. 1, 2010

Source: Drug Information provided by: Micromedex

Copyright © 2010 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.


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