Home Drug Guide Levopropoxyphene Napsylate Anhydrous

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Levopropoxyphene Napsylate Anhydrous

Brand Names Novrad

Classification

Therapeutic: Analgesic, Centrally Acting

Pharmacological: Opioid Analgesic (Weak)}

FDA Approved Indications

Management of mild to moderate pain

Mechanism of Action

Levopropoxyphene acts on the central nervous system by inhibiting pain impulses; it is a weak opioid receptor agonist, providing analgesic effects.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically, 65-130 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 600 mg per day.

Pediatric: Use is not recommended due to safety concerns.

Geriatric: Dose adjustments may be necessary due to increased sensitivity; start with lower doses.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution; dose adjustment may be required.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor for accumulation.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Distribution: Widely distributed throughout body tissues.

Metabolism: Metabolized hepatically via conjugation and reduction.

Excretion: Excreted primarily in the urine.

Half Life: Approximately 4-6 hours.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to narcotics or opioids.
Respiratory depression.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with respiratory insufficiency, head injury, or impaired renal or hepatic function. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Dizziness (Common)
Drowsiness (Common)
Nausea (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Respiratory depression (Serious)
Hypersensitivity reactions (Serious)
Dependence and addiction (Serious)

Drug-Drug Interactions

CNS depressants, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives, which may enhance respiratory depression.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor for effectiveness of pain relief, sedation level, and signs of respiratory depression.

Diagnoses:

Pain, Acute
Risk for Respiratory Depression

Implementation: Administer orally with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Monitor vital signs regularly.

Evaluation: Assess pain relief and monitor for adverse effects.

Patient/Family Teaching

Do not operate heavy machinery or drive until sedation level is known.
Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.
Report any signs of respiratory difficulty, excessive sedation, or allergic reactions.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

Potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse; risk of respiratory depression.

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: N/A

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Respiratory depression, pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness.

Treatment: Administer opioid antagonist (naloxone), provide respiratory support, and monitor vital signs.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.