Prescription Drug Information: symptoms, conditions, and side effects
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Demerol (meperidine)

Other names: Demerol Oral, Mepergan, Pethadol

About Demerol

Demerol is a narcotic analgesic (opiate pain medication) prescribed for short-term treatment of moderate to severe pain. Demerol acts on the central nervous system and smooth muscle tissue, slowing the central nervous system.

Demerol has few side effects when taken as recommended by your doctor, but some cautions should be observed. Interactions may occur with certain medications that could alter or increase the effect of either Demerol, or the other medication. While Demerol is an effective pain reliever, narcotic analgesics have been associated with an increased risk of addiction when used improperly, or for too long. Never take Demerol in greater doses, double doses, or for a longer period of time than recommended by your doctor.

Demerol is only available by prescription, and should not be mixed with any other pain medication except by the advice of your doctor.

Demerol Side Effects

Demerol side effects are usually mild, and tend to diminish over time. As with all narcotic medications, it can impair performance. Driving or operating heavy machinery is not advised, as Demerol can interfere with mental and physical abilities. Become familiar with your reaction to Demerol before performing potentially hazardous tasks while taking it.

Common Demerol side effects: are constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, itching, nausea, sedation, sweating, vomiting, or weakness. If you feel lightheaded or nauseous, lying down may alleviate these symptoms.

Breathing: High doses of Demerol, or patient sensitivity, can cause breathing irregularity or other respiratory depression. Respiratory depression is the most serious likely side effect of Demerol, and may be more likely with certain combinations of medication. Check the drug interaction list carefully, and be cautious with any drug that slows the central nervous system or 'may cause drowsiness.' If you have breathing difficulties, Demerol may not be right for you.

Head Injuries: Demerol's narcotic effects can cause an increase of pressure in the cerebral and spinal fluid. If a patient has suffered a head injury, both the pressure increase and the respiratory suppression can be exaggerated. Demerol may interfere with an accurate diagnosis or treatment of head injuries.

Acute Abdominal Conditions: Demerol may interfere with diagnosis and treatment of acute abdominal conditions.

Dependence: Mental and physical dependence can develop if Demerol is used for long periods of time. Long use of Demerol can create a tolerance condition where the medication no longer works at the initial dosage.

Overdose: Demerol overdose is characterized by seizure, slowed breathing, extreme drowsiness progressing to stupor or coma, limp muscles, or cold, clammy skin. Severe Demerol overdose may result in death due to cardiac arrest or stopped breathing. Seek emergency medical treatment immediately if you suspect an overdose.

Severe side effects rarely occur at the prescribed dosage of Demerol. Do not exceed the dosage that has been prescribed to you. Take Demerol only as much, and as often, as recommended by your doctor.

Many cases of drug overdose involving prescription medications are related to mixing drugs that accelerate each other's effects. Never mix a pain medication like Demerol with another prescription drug that you or your physician suspect may not be safe. Never mix Demerol with over the counter medications that have not been approved by your doctor or pharmacist, and avoid mixing it with street drugs of any type. Ignoring drug interaction warnings has resulted in dangerous or fatal overdose in some patients.

Cautions: Demerol should be prescribed with caution to patients with Addison's disease or kidney, liver, thyroid, or urogenital tract problems. Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Demerol, or any other medication.

Demerol Interactions

Demerol works by slowing the central nervous system. It should be used with caution with other drugs that have similar effects. Non-opioid pain medication, which includes most over the counter pain medication, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication is usually safe to take in combination with Demerol. (Though over the counter pain medications should not be mixed with each other.) Consult your doctor regarding a combination which will be effective for you.

Demerol can change or increase the effects of certain drugs, and your physician should be advised if you are taking any of the following.

In addition to the above medications, tell your doctor if you are using any other major antidepressants or central nervous system depressants in combination with Demerol. Be cautious about taking Demerol with any medicine warning that it 'may cause drowsiness.'

Demerol Dosages

Demerol dosage for adults is usually started at 50 - 150 mg every 3 - 4 hours, though 100 mg per dose is most common. If you take a high dosage of Demerol, your doctor may suggest stepping down treatment gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Demerol Directions

If you miss a dose of Demerol, take it as soon as you remember. If you are within an hour or so of your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your schedule. Taking double doses of Demerol is not recommended, as it may lead to an overdose or dependence.

Do not crush tablets before taking, as this could release the drug into the bloodstream too fast, possibly resulting in an overdose. Do not freeze the oral solution.

Inform your doctor, dentist, or anesthesiologist that you are taking Demerol before any kind of surgery or medical test. This medication may interfere with certain test results. Demerol should not be combined with certain medications given during surgery.

Store Demerol away from direct light and heat. Store in a dry location; avoid storing it in the bathroom, near sinks, or other areas where it may become damp. Do not use after the expiration date.

Keep Demerol away from children; both when storing it, and when discarding any unused medication.

Demerol may cause drowsiness or disorientation. Be cautious if you plan to drive or operate heavy machinery, avoid these activities if you find yourself feeling tired or experience slowed reactions.

Demerol is a trademark of Sanofi Synthelabo

This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. The dosages mentioned are general manufacturers guidelines only, please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. Dosage recommendations for children and seniors may vary significantly from standard dosages, and pregnant women should always speak to their OB/GYN before taking any medication. We have made every effort to ensure that the information presented is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.

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