'DISTALGESIC' - ACCUSATIONS DENIED

After the recent controversy over 'Distalg~ic' [see Inpharma No 174: p3 (] 7 Feb 1979)], a preliminary survey was made at the rheumatology clinic at St Stephen's Hospital, London, to determine the prescribing pattern for 'Distalgesic' and the possibility of its abuse. Of the 104 outpatients interviewed, 37 were taking 'Distalgesic'. There were no cases of habituation or excessive use and :mly I patient complained of a side effect (constipation). Although recognising the hazards of overdosage of dextropropoxyphene, !specially with alcohol, these authors believe that 'Distalgesic is a relatively safe and effective analgesic in the management of chronic painful conditions'. ~arrell , J. et a!. : British Medical Journal I: 1284 (t 2 May 1979)

0156-2703/79 /0602-0003 $00.50/0 © ADIS Press INPHARMA 2 June 1979 3