Demerol

Generic name: Meperidine hydrochloride

What is Demerol?

Demerol, a narcotic analgesic, is prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain.

What is the most important information I should know about Demerol?

Do not take Demerol if you are currently taking drugs known as MAO inhibitors or have used them in the previous 2 weeks. Drugs in this category include the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine. When taken with Demerol, they can cause unpredictable, severe, and occasionally fatal reactions.

You can build up tolerance to, and both mental and physical dependence on, Demerol if you take it repeatedly. Since it is possible that you could become addicted to Demerol, do not use it for any purpose other than what your doctor has prescribed it for. If you have ever had a problem with drug abuse, consult with your doctor before taking this drug.

Who should not take Demerol?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Demerol or other narcotic painkillers, you should not use this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

You should not take Demerol if you are taking MAO inhibitors (such as phenelzine or trancylpromine) or if you have recently been taking MAO inhibitors within 14 days.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Demerol?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have ever had any of the following: a severe liver or kidney disorder, head injury, sickle cell anemia, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland), adrenal gland dysfunction or tumor, an enlarged prostate, a urethral stricture (narrowing of the tube leading from the bladder), a severe abdominal condition, an irregular heartbeat, a history of convulsions, or a history of drug abuse or alcoholism (including alcohol withdrawal marked by delirium tremens).

It's also important to let your doctor know if you have severe asthma attacks, frequently recurring lung disease, if you are unable to inhale or exhale extra air when needed, or if you have any pre-existing breathing difficulties.

Before having surgery, make sure the doctor knows you are taking Demerol. Combining Demerol with a general anesthetic could cause serious side effects.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage of Demerol is 50 milligrams (mg) to 150 mg every 3 or 4 hours, determined according to your response and the severity of the pain. For older adults, the doctor may reduce the dosage.

Children: The usual dosage is 1.1 mg to 1.8 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, up to the adult dose taken every 3 or 4 hours, as determined by your doctor.

It's best to consult your doctor before giving Demerol to newborns or very young infants.

How should I take Demerol?

Take Demerol exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the amount or length of time you take this drug without your doctor's approval. Likewise, do not abruptly stop taking Demerol, since this could increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms.

If you are using Demerol in syrup form, take each dose in a half glass of water.

What should I avoid while taking Demerol?

Demerol may affect you both mentally and physically. You should not drive a car, operate machinery, or perform any other potentially hazardous activities until you know how the drug affects you.

Do not abruptly stop using Demerol, especially if you have been taking it for a while. Your doctor will have you gradually taper off this medication to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms, including restlessness, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, rapid heartbeat or breathing, increased blood pressure, or flu-like symptoms.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Demerol?

It's very important not to combine Demerol with any sleep medications or tranquilizers, since this combination could cause serious injury or death.

Demerol slows brain activity and intensifies the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.

If Demerol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Demerol with the following:

Acyclovir, Alcohol

Antidepressant drugs such as amitriptyline or imipramine

Buprenorphine,Butorphanol,Cimetidine,General anesthetics such as midazolam,Major tranquilizers (phenothiazines) such as chlorpromazine and thioridazine,MAO inhibitors such as the antidepressant drugs phenelzine and tranylcypromine.,Muscle relaxants such as carisoprodol and chlorzoxazone,Nalbuphine,Other narcotic painkillers such as codeine and oxycodone,Pentazocine,Phenytoin,Ritonavir,Sedatives such as temazepam and triazolam,Sleep aids such as zaleplon and zolpidem,Tranquilizers such as alprazolam and diazepam

What are the possible side effects of Demerol?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Demerol.

Side effects may include: Dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, sedation, sweating, vomiting

If any of these side effects occur, it may help if you lie down after taking the medication.

Can I receive Demerol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Demerol if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant unless you are directed to do so by your doctor. Demerol appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding your baby until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Demerol?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Demerol?

Store at room temperature and protect from heat.