Opioid painkiller (narcotic analgesic)
Brand of Pentazocine
Last reviewed June 2026
NAFDAC registration currently inactive
This product's NAFDAC registration is not currently active. It may still be available in pharmacies, but you should verify its status with your pharmacist before use.
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Pentazocine is a strong painkiller that works by acting on special pain receptors in your brain and spinal cord to block pain signals, giving you relief from moderate to severe pain.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For tablets, the usual adult dose is 50 mg every 3 to 4 hours as needed for pain, up to a maximum of 600 mg per day. Take with food to reduce stomach upset. For injections, this is usually given by a nurse or doctor in a hospital — the usual dose is 30 mg injected into a muscle or vein every 3 to 4 hours. Do not use more than your doctor prescribed.
Since pentazocine is usually taken only when you have pain, you may not be on a regular schedule. If your doctor told you to take it regularly and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one — never double up.
Pentazocine is commonly abused in Nigeria — never share this drug with anyone, and only use it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Only buy from licensed pharmacies with NAFDAC-registered brands like Alpent, Amazocine, Banazine, or Centaz — avoid buying from roadside sellers or unregistered sources. This drug can make you very drowsy, so do not drive, operate machines, or do okada riding after taking it.
Do not drink alcohol while using pentazocine — it can dangerously increase drowsiness and slow your breathing. Do not combine with other strong painkillers like tramadol or morphine as this can cause life-threatening breathing problems. Avoid using with sedatives or sleeping pills as the combined effect can be very dangerous.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Pentazocine with your other drugs?
Pentazocine is not safe during pregnancy, especially close to delivery, as it can cause breathing problems in your newborn and withdrawal symptoms — always consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigeria's hot weather can damage this drug, so keep it in a cool, dry place. Keep well out of the reach of children and lock it away if possible, as this is a very strong drug that can be dangerous if misused.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
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NAFDAC Number
A4-9387
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