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