It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the safety information for Demerol
® (
meperidine hydrochloride), a medication that was once commonly used for relieving pain. Although the drug was very popular for decades, it has fallen out of favor with most healthcare providers in recent years due to its ability to produce a unique group of serious side effects.
As a narcotic, Demerol also has a significant potential for abuse. It has been shown to cause both psychological and physical dependence. Because of this, it is classified as a
controlled substance in the United States (meaning there are special rules and regulations for prescribing and obtaining the medication).
Due to the serious side effects that have been reported with Demerol, along with the awareness that this medicine has no specific benefits over other safer opioids, many hospitals now recommend that Demerol injection be used only in the special circumstances. It has also been recommended that oral Demerol products be avoided altogether in almost all situations.
(Click Demerol for more detailed information for Demerol, including information on how the drug works, what side effects may occur, and what else you should be aware of before using this medicine.)