4-4. SPECIFIC ANALGESIC AGENTS
a. Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Acetaminophen is used as an analgesic and as
an antipyretic. It is not an anti-inflammatory agent: Acetaminophen will not relieve the
swelling or redness found in arthritis or rheumatism. Side effects associated with this
agent are itching or skin rash (most likely caused by hypersensitivity reactions),
hemolytic anemia (persons with G-6-PD deficiency are especially susceptible), and
kidney damage. This drug may cause liver damage with chronic use. Acetaminophen
is available in capsule, elixir, suspension, syrup, tablet, chewable tablet, and
suppository forms.
b. Aspirin (A.S.A.). Aspirin is used as an analgesic, anti-pyretic, and anti-
inflammatory agent. Aspirin produces gastric irritation. Taking aspirin with a full glass
of water or milk (8 fluid ounces) can help minimize stomach irritation. Tinnitus (ringing
of the ears) is a symptom of aspirin overdose. Aspirin interacts with a variety of
medications. One, the effects of oral hypoglycemic or insulin is increased when aspirin
is administered concurrently with them. Two, since aspirin has some anti-coagulant
effects, concurrent administration of aspirin, and some anti-coagulants can result in
increased risk of patient bleeding. Patients should be cautioned against taking any oral
aspirin preparation that has a strong vinegar-like odor. Aspirin is available in a variety
of dosage forms (tablets, enteric coated tablets--dissolve in the intestines, and
suppositories).
c. Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide, and Aluminum Hydroxide Tablets
(Cama). This aspirin-containing product is an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and
antipyretic agent. The magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide is in the
formulation to reduce the stomach irritation associated with the aspirin. Patients taking
this medication should be told not to take this medication with tetracyclines because the
tetracycline's therapeutic effect might be decreased: This medication and tectracyclines
should not be taken within one hour of each other. This product should be taken with at
least 8 fluid ounces of water. Patients should be cautioned against taking this product if
it has a strong vinegar-like odor.
d. Propoxyphene Hydrochloride (Darvon). Propoxyphene is a centrally
acting opioid analgesic. The drug may produce side effects such as dizziness,
drowsiness, or blurred vision. Patients taking propoxyphene should be cautioned
against taking alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while they are
taking propoxyphene. Propoxyphene is a Note Q controlled substance.
e. Propoxyphene Napsylate (Darvon N). Propoxyphene napsylate is used as
an analgesic. It may produce such side effects as drowsiness and dizziness. Patients
should be warned against taking alcohol or other central nervous system depressants
when they are taking this drug. Darvon N is a Note Q controlled substance.
f. Pentazocine (Talwin). Pentazocine is a centrally acting opioid analgesic.
Side effects associated with this agent are gastrointestinal upset, sedation, blurred
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