About pentazocine
Opioid analgesic
Used for
- Relief of moderate to severe pain.
Usual adult dose
Usually 50 mg every 3–4 hours as needed; maximum 600 mg daily.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.
- Constipation or sweating.
- Confusion or unusual dreams.
- Slow or difficult breathing.
Important warnings
- Can cause dependence, misuse, and overdose.
- Avoid alcohol and other sedatives; combined use can dangerously slow breathing.
- May trigger withdrawal in people taking other opioids.
- Use caution with breathing disorders, head injury, or severe liver or kidney disease.
Pregnancy
May cause newborn withdrawal or breathing problems, especially with prolonged use or near delivery.
Breastfeeding
Can cause infant sleepiness or breathing problems; use requires careful medical assessment.
Interactions
- Alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleeping medicines, and other sedatives increase breathing risks.
- Other opioids may have reduced pain relief or cause withdrawal.
- MAO inhibitors can cause serious reactions; avoid use together.
- Some antidepressants and other serotonin-raising medicines may increase serotonin syndrome risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.