PC-CAP

Drug Name: PC-CAP

PC-CAP DESCRIPTION:
PROPOXYPHENE/ASPIRIN/CAFFEINE - ORAL (pro-POX-ee-feen/ASP-er-in/kaff-EEN)

COMMON PC-CAP BRAND NAME(S):
Darvon Cmpd-65, PC-Cap 65

PC-CAP SIDE EFFECTS:
May cause constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, or flushing the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, anxiety or 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 or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE PC-CAP:
PC-CAP: To prevent upset stomach, take with food or milk. Take PC-CAP with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking PC-CAP. Pain medications work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, PC-CAP may not be as effective in relieving the pain. Use PC-CAP 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 PC-CAP can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using PC-CAP without your doctor's approval. Over time, PC-CAP may not work as well. Consult your doctor if PC-CAP is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

PC-CAP WARNING:
Children and teenagers should not use aspirin, aspirin- containing or aspirin-related medications for flu symptoms or chickenpox without first consulting a doctor. A rare but serious illness known as Reye's syndrome may occur. Propoxyphene should be used with extreme caution, if at all, in people who use alcohol; have a history of substance abuse or emotional conditions; or who already take drowsiness-causing drugs (e.g., antidepressants, barbiturates, muscle relaxants, pain relievers, sedatives). Fatalities have occurred in such patients when propoxyphene was misused.

PC-CAP USES:
PC-CAP is used to relieve moderate to severe pain and swelling (inflammation).

PC-CAP PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history especially of asthma, anemia, bleeding problems, ulcers, gout, any drug allergies, a substance abuse history, of any emotional or mental problems, liver or heart problems, breathing problems, high blood pressure or severe diarrhea. This combination product contains aspirin. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin if they have chickenpox, influenza or any undiagnosed illness without first consulting a doctor about Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Aspirin is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using PC-CAP. PC-CAP is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

PC-CAP DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially of warfarin, cimetidine, acetazolamide, other narcotic pain drugs, corticosteroids, methotrexate, medication for arthritis, gout, or diabetes; medications that may make you dizzy or drowsy such as drugs used for sleep, sedation, anxiety (e.g., diazepam), anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, psychiatric drugs (e.g., antidepressants) and of certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Because PC-CAP contains aspirin, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medications containing pain relievers. Pain relievers can be found in many cough-and-cold preparations. PC-CAP contains caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated beverages while taking PC-CAP as excessive nervousness and irritability can occur. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

PC-CAP OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slow and shallow breathing, unusual sleepiness, dizziness, decreased pupil size, cold and clammy skin, difficulty hearing, ringing in the ears, headache, sweating, thirst, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.

PC-CAP NOTES:
To prevent constipation, increase your intake of fiber, drink plenty of water and exercise. Do not allow anyone else to take PC-CAP.

MISSED PC-CAP 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.

PC-CAP STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.