Dextrpropoxyphene Poisoning – a Review Study

Dextropropoxyphene is a synthetic weak opioid analgesic used commonly in combination with paracetamol for treatment of mild to moderate pain. After its ubiquitous introductory phase, it was soon discovered that this drug's iatrogenic events far outweighed any perceived therapeutic benefits. In India, this combination is highly popular amongst doctors as well as patients due to its easy availability and euphoric effects. This has led to a rise in pharmacological addiction resulting in medical emergencies and fatalities. The aim of this article is to make the medical fraternity aware of this new trend in self-poisoning as well as discuss the methods to deal with such patients as general physicians and as forensic experts.