Meperidine

Generic Name : Meperidine

TradeName : Pethidine HCL

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Meperidine is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

When it is to be taken : Meperidine is usually taken every three or four hours as needed. Follow the instructions on your prescription label. Meperidine starts to take effect within one hour and goes on working for two to four hours.

How it should be taken : Meperidine comes in the form of tablets and oral liquid. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. If you use the oral liquid, get a specially marked measuring spoon. Dilute the liquid in a half glass of water.

Special Instruction :
1. Meperidine can be habit-forming. Do not take it more often or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to, and do not take more than the amount prescribed at each dose.
2. Do not increase your dose without consulting your doctor. This drug may decrease mental alertness. Do not drive a car or operte dangerous machinery until you know how it affects you.

Side Effects :
1. Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness. Lie down for a while. If these effects continue to cause discomfort, contact your doctor.
2. Constipation, difficulty urinating. Contact your doctor.
3. Difficulty breathing, especially in elderly patients, people with lung problems, and people taking certain other medications.
4. Alert family members or some other person who is likely to be nearby to call your doctor immediately if you have difficulty breathing or feel faint.

Other Precautions :
1. If you are allergic to codeine or any othe medication, tell your doctor before you take meperdine.
2. Tell your doctor what drugs, including nonprescription drugs, you are taking, especially estrogen, birth-control pills, and MAO(monoaminooxidase) inhibitors like phenelzine, isocarboxazid, and tranylcypromine, even if you stopped taking them in the last 14 days.
3. Do not take pain relievers, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, antidepressants, sedatives, or any other medications while you are taking meperidine unless your doctor tells you that you may.
4. Tell your doctor if you are taking isoniazid for tuberculosis because meperidine can make the side effects of isoniazid worse.
5. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart, kidney, or liver disease or epilepsy.
6. Alcoholic beverages can add to the effects of meperidine, causing dizziness, drowsiness, and stomach irritation. Ask your doctor for advice about the safe use of alcohol.
7. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should inform their doctors before taking meperidine.
8. Do not allow anyone else to take your medication.

Storage Conditions :
Keep meperidine in the container it came in and out of the rech of children.