Demerol Warnings and Precautions

Before starting treatment, warnings and precautions for Demerol should be reviewed with your healthcare provider. Although this pain reliever was once very popular, many healthcare providers no longer prescribe it (as serious side effects have been reported). As a narcotic, Demerol has a significant potential for addiction and abuse. It is usually recommended that this medication be avoided if possible in most situations.

Demerol Drug Information

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Demerol?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Demerol^® (meperidine hydrochloride) if you have:

A history of drug or alcohol dependence
Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis
Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
An irregular heart rhythm, such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter
Seizures or epilepsy
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Gallbladder or pancreas disease
Lung disease of any sort
A head injury or high intracranial pressure
Severe abdominal (stomach) pain
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
Asthma
Addison's disease
An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy, or BPH)
Seizures or epilepsy
Sickle cell anemia
Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:

Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
Breastfeeding.

Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

(Demerol Warnings and Precautions Continued: Page 2)