Demerol
Demerol (meperidine) is a fast-acting narcotic analgesic (pain-reducing) drug. It is used to deal with moderate to severe pain, and is delivered as a syrup or by injection. Because Demerol has the potential to be both physically and psychologically habituating, it is important that it be used in only the doses prescribed, and that withdrawal from the drug be supervised by a physician to ensure there are no adverse reactions.Demerol interacts with a number of other medications, including muscle relaxants, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. It is especially dangerous to use if the patient is using monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) type antidepressants. The patient using Demerol should not take any medicine not first cleared with her physician. Demerol is also contraindicated for use when a patient is suffering from gallbladder, live, or kidney disease, has a history of seizures or epilepsy, has an enlarged prostate or urinary retention problems, or suffers from hyperthyroidism, asthma, or Addison's disease.
Users of Demerol may experience serious side effects. These include asthma, swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, seizures, cold and clammy skin, or dizziness and possible unconsciousness. The presence of any of these side effects is an indicator to stop using Demerol immediately and seek immediate medical attention.
Less serious side effects include constipation, dry mouth, lightheadedness, itchiness, muscular twitches, and nausea.