Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Pentazocine requires a valid prescription.
Pentazocine
Generic Name: PENTAZOCINE HYDROCHLORIDE AND NALOXONE HYDROCHLORIDE
DESCRIPTION Pentazocine and Naloxone Tablets, USP contain pentazocine hydrochloride, USP, a partial opioid agonist, equivalent to 50 mg base and is a member of the benzazocine series (also known as the benzomorphan series), and naloxone hydrochloride, USP, an opioid antagonist equivalent to 0.5 mg base.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
What is Pentazocine Used For?
- Pain relief
- Fever reduction
- Anti-inflammatory
How Does It Work?
Pentazocine is a partial agonist at the mu opioid receptor and an agonist at the kappa opioid receptor.
Dosage & Administration
- Reserve titration to higher doses of Pentazocine and Naloxone Tablets for patients in whom lower doses are insufficiently effective and in whom the expected benefits of using a higher dose opioid clearly outweigh the substantial risks.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- As an opioid, Pentazocine and Naloxone Tablets expose users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse [see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE ].
- Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed Pentazocine and Naloxone Tablets.
- The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy.
- Assess each patient's risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing Pentazocine and Naloxone Tablets, and reassess all patients receiving Pentazocine and Naloxone Tablets for the development of these behaviors and conditions.
- Risks are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol abuse or addiction) or mental illness (e.g., major depression).
Drug Interactions
Pentazocine may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a general physician on Zospital
Consult a general physician on Zospital before starting Pentazocine. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Analgesics & Pain Relief Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Pentazocine – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Pentazocine, its uses, dosage and safety.
Pentazocine is commonly prescribed in India for: Pain relief, Fever reduction, Anti-inflammatory. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Pentazocine is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Pentazocine can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Dry mouth, Insomnia. Less common but serious side effects can include: Severe, Serious, Life-threatening, Fatal, Death. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Pentazocine is a partial agonist at the mu opioid receptor and an agonist at the kappa opioid receptor.
Pentazocine can interact with: Central, Information, Pentazocine, Monoamine, Caution, Partial. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Pentazocine.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Pentazocine for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Pentazocine depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Pentazocine during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹10 – ₹120 per strip of 10 tablets depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Pentazocine's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.