Alternative names 
Talwin; Fortal; Pentafen; Fortulgesic; Litcon

Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of pentazocine.

Poisonous Ingredient
Pentazocine

Where Found

 
• Talwin Nx  
• Algopent  
• Fortral  
• Pentafen  
• Fortulgesic  
• Liticon

This list is not all inclusive.

Symptoms

 
• Respiratory       o Breathing difficulty (shallow, slow, or labored; breathing may stop, which can be fatal in 2-4 minutes)  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat       o Pinpoint pupils  
• Skin       o Cyanosis  
• Gastrointestinal       o Vomiting       o Abdominal cramps       o Constipation       o Dry mouth  
• Heart and blood vessels       o Weak or fast pulse       o Low blood pressure or high blood pressure       o Palpitations  
• Nervous system       o Drowsiness       o Convulsions       o Dizziness       o Headache

Home Treatment
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.

Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:

 
• The patient’s age, weight, and condition  
• Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength if known)  
• The time it was swallowed  
• The amount swallowed  
• If the medication was prescribed for the patient

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control Centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

 
• Use gastric lavage.  
• Administer activated charcoal.  
• Administer a laxative.  
• Give a counteracting medication (narcotic antagonist). Multiple doses may be needed.  
• Administer intravenous fluids as needed.  
• Monitor breathing.  
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis)
If an antidote can be given, recovery from an acute overdose often occurs within 1 to 2 days.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.