Demerol Effects

Demerol (meperidine) is a narcotic medication that produces numerous effects. It can be used to relieve pain, suppress coughing, and cause drowsiness. Some of the other effects of Demerol include decreased breathing, slowing of the digestive tract, and physical dependence. Euphoria can also occur; many people abuse this drug because they experience unusual, pleasant feelings while taking it.

Medical Effects of Demerol

Demerol® (meperidine hydrochloride) is a narcotic, opiate pain reliever. It binds to opioid receptors throughout the body and produces numerous different effects. These effects include (but are not limited to):
 
  • Pain relief
  • Drowsiness
  • Cough suppression
  • Anxiety relief
  • Unusual, unpleasant feelings (dysphoria) or unusual, pleasant feelings (euphoria)
  • Decreased breathing (slow or shallow breathing)
  • Certain changes in the circulatory system
  • Slowing of the digestive tract
  • Physical dependence.
     
Compared with morphine, Demerol does not last as long and has less ability to suppress cough and slow the digestive tract.
 
(See Demerol Uses for more information.)
 

Recreational Demerol Effects

Demerol is commonly abused. In most people, it produces effects similar to morphine. People may experience euphoria due to Demerol. Frequent use of this medication leads to tolerance and dependence.
 
This means that a higher Demerol dosage will be necessary to achieve the desired effects, and the body will become accustomed to the effects (and Demerol withdrawal symptoms may occur if the drug is stopped).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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