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West J Med. 1974 August; 121(2): 106–111.
PMCID: PMC1129514
The Use of Propoxyphene Napsylate in the Treatment of Heroin and Methadone Addiction
Daryl S. Inaba, Pharm D, George R. Gay, MD, Craig A. Whitehead, MD, John A. Newmeyer, PH D, and Dan Bergin, BA
Haight-Ashbury Free Medical Clinics' Drug Detoxification, Rehabilitation, and Aftercare Project, San Francisco
Heroin Detoxification Ward, Aquarian Effort, Sacramento
Abstract
The use of methadone in the treatment of heroin addiction continues to be controversial. Propoxyphene napsylate (Darvon N®) is a possible alternative and a pilot study was conducted to test its acceptability, safety and clinical efficacy in treating long term, “multi-relapse” heroin addicts.
Findings indicate that propoxyphene napsylate suppresses many of the symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal phenomena. It should be viewed as a very promising therapeutic tool to be used in conjunction with psychological counseling and socio-vocational rehabilitation in detoxification and maintenance therapy for heroin or methadone addiction.
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Selected References
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