title: The dangers of dextropropoxyphene.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Dextropropoxyphene is a commonly used analgesic despite its high toxicity in overdose and potential for abuse and dependence. This case report highlights these dangers.
  
  
  METHODS
  The case of a female who was addicted to dextropropoxyphene as an alternative to other opioids is described. Its use in high doses with other psychotropic agents resulted in adverse health effects.
  
  
  METHODS
  The patient was treated with methadone and psychosocial interventions.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The patient reduced her drug use and experienced improved physical health and psychosocial functioning.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Caution is needed when prescribing dextropropoxyphene because of its adverse effects compared with equally efficacious analgesics.
authors.affiliation: Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, New Zealand.
authors.forename: G M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Dore
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D011431:Dextropropoxyphene / Q000009:adverse effects*; D062787:Drug Overdose; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008691:Methadone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011613:Psychotherapy; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D011431:Dextropropoxyphene; D008691:Methadone