Meperidine

Trade Name

Demerol

Pediatric Dose

IM: 1-2 mg/kg q3-4hr PRN, max single dose should not exceed 100 mg.

Onset

IM: 10-15 min IV: Within 5 min

Elderly Dose

IM: 25 mg q4hr PRN.

Adult Dosage

IM: 50-100mg q3-4hr PRN. IV: 15-35 mg per hour (dose should be individualized).

Description

Meperidine is a synthetic agonist that works at opioid receptors to produce analgesia and euphoria. Excessive doses can cause respiratory and central nervous system depression and seizures. It has high potential for physical dependence and abuse and is classified as a schedule II drug.

Class

Opioid Analgesic

How Supplied

Parenteral: 25, 50, 100 mg/ml in 1- and 5- ml prefilled syringe and tubex.

Contraindications

- Hypersensitivity to narcotics - Patients taking MAO inhibitors or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors - During labor or delivery of a premature infant - Head injury

Indications

- Moderate to severe pain - Preoperative medication - Obstetrical analgesia

Special Considerations

- Pregnancy Safety: Category B (if not used for prolonged periods or in high doses). - Use with causation in patients with asthma and COPD. - Meperidine may aggravate seizures in those with convulsive disorders (especially in patients with renal insufficiency). - Use with caution in those susceptible to CNS depression. - Naloxone should be readily available. - Protect from light and freezing. - Use with caution in patients with SVT.

Adverse Reactions

- Respiratory Depression - N/V - Euphoria - Delirium - Agitation - Hallucination - Seizures - Headache - Hypotension - Visual Disturbances - Coma - Facial Flushing - Circulatory Collapse - Dysrhythmias - Allergic Reaction - Drowsiness

Drug Interactions

- Respiratory depression, hypotension, or sedation may be potentiated by CNS depressants. - Therapeutic doses of meperidine have caused data reactions in patients taking MAO inhibitors within the previous 14 days. - Phenytoin may decrease analgesic effects.

Duration

2-4 hrs