Understanding the Effects of Demerol on Pain Management
Demerol is a potent pain medication used to manage severe pain. Learn about its effectiveness, risks, and the importance of medical supervision.
What is Demerol?
Demerol, or meperidine, is a synthetic opioid pain medication for managing moderate to severe pain. It is chemically similar to morphine, but its chemical structure is different, which makes it a unique pain medication. Demerol works by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which reduces the transmission of pain signals to the brain, resulting in pain relief.
This drug is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and injections. A healthcare professional usually administers the medication in a clinical setting. It is not intended for long-term use; patients should only take it under medical supervision.1
Legality
Demerol is a controlled substance in most countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It classifies as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. The classification also means that Demerol has medical uses but is subject to strict regulations to prevent misuse.2
In the United States, this drug can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. The prescription must follow federal and state laws regarding controlled substances. The medication must also be stored securely, and patients should not share it with others.
When assessing follow-up results from multiple studies, outpatient programs reduced substance use and increased abstinence rates. Between 50%–70% of patients maintained abstinence. The studies also indicate the severity of substance use after initial outpatient treatment.3
Medical and Recreational Uses
Demerol is taken in a few different ways. You can use it for medical purposes since it helps with pain management, or you can take it recreationally. However, its recreational usage comes with risks and is unadvisable, so it’s important to be careful when using it.
Medical Uses
Demerol is primarily used for the management of moderate to severe pain. It is commonly used in clinical settings, such as hospitals and surgical centers, to manage pain during and after surgeries, childbirth, and other medical procedures. It also manages pain associated with cancer, sickle cell disease, and other chronic conditions.
It is even prescribed in different forms, including tablets, capsules, and injections. The dosage and frequency of use depend on the severity of the pain, the patient’s medical history, and other factors. Patients should only take it as prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional.
Recreational Uses
Demerol is also used recreationally due to its euphoric effects. Some people misuse this drug by taking it in higher doses than prescribed or using it without a prescription. Recreational use can result in various adverse effects, including drowsiness, confusion, respiratory depression, and even death.
How it Works
Demerol works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. These receptors help reduce pain perception and increase pain tolerance.
When Demerol binds to these receptors, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which produces a sense of euphoria and pain relief. It also blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain, reducing pain perception. It has the same action mechanism as morphine, but Demerol makes the user restless instead of undergoing sedation.3
Comparison with Other Pain Medications
Demerol is often used as an alternative to opioid pain medications such as morphine or oxycodone. Yet, it is less potent than these drugs and has a shorter duration of action. It is also more likely to cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness than other opioids.
Compared to non-opioid pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, it relieves moderate to severe pain more effectively. However, it also carries a higher risk of addiction and other side effects.
Demerol Abuse and Addiction
Demerol has a high potential for abuse and addiction, especially when used recreationally. Chronic use can lead to physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction.
Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to the drug’s presence and requires it to function normally. Tolerance occurs when the body becomes less responsive to the medication, and higher doses are required to achieve the same level of pain relief. Addiction occurs when the individual continues to use Demerol despite experiencing adverse consequences, such as relationship problems, financial difficulties, and health issues.
Symptoms of Addiction
Symptoms of Demerol abuse and addiction include:
- Using it without a prescription
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Continuing to use it despite experiencing negative consequences
- Cravings
- Using it to cope with emotional or psychological distress
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining and using it
- Neglecting responsibilities and social activities
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can occur when use of this drug is stopped or reduced, including:4
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Cravings
It is crucial to seek medical help if you or someone you know is struggling with Demerol abuse or addiction.
Impact on the Mind and Body
Medical supervision is critical when using Demerol because it is an opioid medication that can be addictive and cause harmful side effects to your mind and body. Medical supervision ensures that the drug is used safely and effectively, and any adverse effects can be addressed promptly.5
Short-term Effects
When taken as prescribed, this drug helps to relieve any pain. But it still has its side effects, including:
- Respiratory depression
- Nausea and vomiting
- Itching
- Constipation
- Reduced heart rate and blood pressure
Call your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms become severe or do not go away.
Long-term Effects
Prolonged use can lead to more serious health issues. Some long-term effects of taking the drug include:6
- Hormonal imbalances
- Liver and kidney damage
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
- Psychological disorders (anxiety, depression, mood swings, etc.)
Some side effects are uncommon, and you or a loved one taking Demerol shouldn’t be able to experience all of them. However, if that does happen, call your doctor immediately.
Dangers of Long-Term Use
Demerol abuse and addiction can severely affect an individual’s physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. It is essential to be aware of any potential risk factors associated with taking the drug.
Physical Health Risks
Some risk factors of taking this drug that can affect you physically include:
- Respiratory depression
- Decreased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Hormonal imbalances
- Increased risk of infections
- Liver and kidney damage
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
These risk factors may seem daunting, so make sure to be extra careful when taking this drug and stick to the dosage assigned by your doctor. Call your doctor or emergency services immediately if you experience these risk factors.
Psychological Health Risks
There are also several psychological risk factors to taking Demerol, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
Again, it is important to use this drug only under medical supervision and for the shortest possible duration to avoid these risks.
Treatment Options
It is important for individuals seeking treatment for Demerol addiction to work closely with medical professionals and develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their individual needs. With the right treatment and support, recovery from addiction is possible. Treatment options for addiction to this drug may include:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment: Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for Demerol addiction involves a process known as detoxification or detox. This allows the body to eliminate Demerol and other toxins from the system while managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. For this, medical professionals may prescribe medications, counseling, and other behavioral therapies.
- Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapies can be individual or group-based, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and contingency management. The therapy focuses on identifying and changing patterns of behavior that contribute to addiction, trains them to manage their emotions, and offers rewards for positive behaviors.
- Support Groups: Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences and receive encouragement and support from others who have gone through similar experiences.
- Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation: Inpatient rehabilitation involves admission to a residential treatment facility where individuals receive 24-hour medical care and support. It is recommended for individuals with severe addiction. Outpatient rehabilitation allows individuals to receive treatment while still living at home.
Essence and Demerol Addiction
At Essence Healthcare, we understand the devastating impact that Demerol addiction can have on individuals and their families. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment with no judgments that help individuals overcome their addictions and reclaim their lives.
Our team of experienced medical professionals, therapists, and support staff work together to provide individualized treatment plans that address addiction’s physical, psychological, and emotional aspects. Recovery is a long journey, so having a supportive place to help you recover from an addiction is key to success. At Essence, you’re not just a patient – you’re family. We make sure you feel at home in our facilities.
Reach Out and Begin Healing
If you or someone you love is struggling with Demerol addiction, we’re here to help. Contact Health & Wellness today to learn more about our addiction treatment services and how we can help. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take the first step toward a happier and healthier future. We can’t wait to meet you!
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3914/demerol-injection/details
- https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/#:~:text=Schedule%20II%2FIIN%20Controlled%20Substances%20(2%2F2N)&text=Examples%20of%20Schedule%20II%20narcotics,opium%2C%20codeine%2C%20and%20hydrocodone.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470362/
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682117.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3914/demerol-injection/details
- https://www.drugs.com/demerol.html
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