Meperidine

Meperidine Trade Name

Demerol

Meperidine Adverse Effects

Hypotension Respiratory depression Bradycardia Altered LOC Nausea/vomiting Constipation, seizures Dysrhythmias Bronchospasm

Meperidine Contraindications

Hypotension (SBP <100) Respiratory depression, Respiratory distress due to asthma/COPD Shock Bowel obstruction Patients who have taken MAOIs within the past 2 weeks

Meperidine Indications

Moderate to severe pain

Meperidine Onset & Duration

Onset: Immediate IV, 10-15 minutes IM Duration: 2-4 hours

Meperidine Class

Opioid analgesic (relieve pain)

Meperidine Special Consideration

Pregnancy Category C Decrease dose in patients with hepatic failure, renal failure, or patients over age 65 Alcohol, other opioids, and CNS depressants (such as benzodiazepines) potentiate depressant effects of meperidine Avoid in patients with suspected/known biliary tract disease, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or head injury. Meperidine is generally not recommended as the first line treatment for pain management

Meperidine Mechanism of Action

Binds to opioid receptors in the CNS, altering the perception of pain and producing generalized CNS depression and analgesia.

Meperidine Dose & Route

25-50 mg slow IV push 50-100 mg IM