Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Meperidine HCl oral

Meperidine HCl oral Drug Category MEPERIDINE - ORAL LIQUID

Meperidine HCl oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. MEPERIDINE - ORAL LIQUID (meh-PAIR-id-een) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Demerol USES: This medication is a narcotic analgesic used to relieve moderate to severe pain. HOW TO USE: Take this by mouth with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Each dose of the syrup should be measured carefully, put into one-half glass of water then drunk immediately. If this is not diluted in water, the mouth may become temporarily numb. Because this medication is more effective for preventing pain than treating once it occurs, this is usually taken regularly for a short time. Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well. Consult your doctor if this medication is not relieving the pain sufficiently. SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, blurred vision, drowsiness, constipation, dizziness or lightheadedness may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: rapid heart rate, fainting, mood changes, hallucinations, tremors, seizures. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have a history of: asthma (or other breathing problems), kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, head injury, seizure disorder, depression, drug dependency, any drug allergies. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol consumption because it will add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this medication. The elderly and children may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. This medication should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, no harm has been noted to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription medication you may use including: MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), chlorpromazine, cimetidine, other narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), medications for sleep, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs. Limit your intake of alcohol while taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. It is against the law. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.