Demerol (meperidine) is a prescription narcotic medication intended to manage symptoms associated with moderate to severe pain. This medication may also be used in addition to anesthesia or other types of sedation prior to surgery. Demerol can be habit-forming, which can lead certain people to abuse the use of this drug. Discuss any concerns you have regarding the effects of Demerol with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Pain Relief
The primary use of Demerol is the alleviation of moderate to severe pain. Demerol acts by depressing the response of the central nervous system, which causes a decrease in pain sensitivity.
Sedation
Demerol can induce sleepiness (sedation) by decreasing signaling throughout the central nervous system within the human body. After taking a dose of Demerol, you can begin to feel tired, drowsy or fatigued and may fall asleep.
Low Blood Pressure
If you take Demerol, this medication can decrease the rate at which blood is pumped through your body. When this occurs, your blood pressure can decrease, which can cause additional symptoms, such as dizziness or headache.
Altered Heartbeat
After taking a dose of Demerol, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reports that you could notice a change in your heart rate. Symptoms may include a decreased heart rate (bradycardia), an increased heart rate (tachycardia) or an abnormal heart beat (palpitation).
Nausea
Stomach upset, such as nausea or vomiting, can occur after taking a dose of Demerol. Additional gastrointestinal-related effects of Demerol can include stomach cramps or a decreased appetite.
Constipation
You could experience constipation while you are receiving treatment with Demerol. Constipation is a condition in which stool excretion is either very difficult or impossible to perform. If you develop constipation, you could also experience abdominal cramps or bloating.
Muscle Spasms
Demerol can induce abnormal muscle spasms in certain people during treatment. Though rare, you could experience tremors, uncoordinated muscle movements, convulsions or seizures as an effect of taking Demerol.
Hallucinations
While taking Demerol, you could develop hallucinations or abnormal mental alterations. Such symptoms can include nervousness, restlessness or confusion.
Allergic Reaction
In rare instances, certain people develop an allergic reaction to Demerol during treatment. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include severe breathing difficulties, an abnormal heart rate, skin rash or itching, muscle weakness or severe nausea or vomiting. Seek emergency medical care if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction to Demerol, as this condition may be life-threatening.
