Choosing recovery close to home means your support system is just a few miles away.
Sounds Like: deh.mr.all
Classification: opioid
Controlled Substance Act Schedule: II
Other names for Demerol
Demerol, a brand name for the drug meperidine, is an opioid. Developed as a strong pain reliever, Demerol has the potential to become habit-forming, especially when used for long periods of time. The most frequent side effects of taking meperidine (or Demerol) include lightheadedness, sedation, nausea and sweating. The drug can cause both mental and physical dependence, and lead to uncomfortable side effects when usage stops. Many clinicians have recommended that meperidine be removed from the health system because it can have adverse reactions with other drugs.
Once someone develops a dependency of addiction to Demerol it can be very difficult to stop use of the drug. They may experience harsh withdrawal symptoms, including nausea and anxiety. This prompts some people to start using meperidine again in an attempt to feel better.
Combining alcohol with painkillers such as Demerol to intensify the effects of the drug can lead to breathing problems, irregular heartbeat, liver complications and other life-threatening health issues.
Need help with Demerol or another drug addiction?
Call Landmark Recovery and speak with an admission specialist today.
Call NowWe're available 24/7 to help you find Recovery
An FDA-approved drug for relieving moderate to severe pain, meperidine (aka Demerol) has been widely used since the 1930s. Like other opioids, meperidine impacts the central nervous system, including the brain to relieve pain. Doctors advise against long-term use of the drug.
Today, this medication is legally available only under a restricted distribution program called the Opioid Analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy program. This is a way to help ensure that the benefits of a drug outweigh its risks.
Demerol can be injected, taken as a tablet or an oral solution such as a syrup. Injections are typically administered by a healthcare professional every three to four hours.
When taken as a tablet, it should not be crushed, chewed or broken. Crushing Demerol tablets can be dangerous and even life threatening because the tablets are designed to dissolve, releasing calculated doses over a period of time.
If taken meperidine syrup, each dose should be measured carefully. Doctors advise patients to use a dose-measuring spoon, syringe or medicine cup rather than an ordinary household tablespoon. Liquid Demerol is often mixed with a half glass of water. Consuming it undiluted could cause numbing of the lips or tongue.
It’s important for patients who may take Demerol to talk with their doctor about other medications they are taking. This includes alcohol and any drugs taken for recreational purposes as well as those of medical necessity.
uncontrolled cravings for Demerol or opioids
unsuccessful attempts to stop using the drug
prioritizing use of the drug over spending time with family or friends
legal or financial problems
use of Demerol despite adverse of negative behaviors
A Demerol overdose can cause slow breathing.
Demerol can be found in urine up to four days after ingestion.
Demerol is one-tenth as potent as Morphine.