Pentazocine and naloxone (patient information)
Why is this medication prescribed
The combination of pentazocine and naloxone is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How should this medicine be used
The combination of pentazocine and naloxone comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 3-4 hours as needed. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take pentazocine and naloxone exactly as directed.
Pentazocine can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.
What special precautions should I follow
Before taking pentazocine and naloxone:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pentazocine, naloxone, sulfites, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, other pain relievers; antidepressants [especially fluoxetine (Prozac)]; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease; a history of alcoholism or seizure disorders; lung or thyroid disease; heart disease; prostatic hypertrophy; or biliary or urinary problems.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking pentazocine and naloxone, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking pentazocine and naloxone.
- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
- remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
What should I do if I forget a dose
This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take pentazocine and naloxone regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Side effects
Mild side effects
Pentazocine and naloxone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- confusion
- feeling very tired
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- drowsiness
- mood changes
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- constipation
- stomach pain
- rash
- difficulty urinating
Severe side effects
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- difficulty breathing
- fast heartbeat
- fainting
- hallucinations
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What other information should I know
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Brand names
- Talwin Nx®