Meperidine

MEPERIDINE 1. Name & class of drug – generic and trade name. GENERIC NAME: Meperidine Hydrochloride BRAND NAME: Demerol, Pethadol, Pethidine hydrochloride CLASSIFICATION: CNS agent, analgesic, narcotic (opiate) agonist analgesic 2. Dose range and routes for adult & geriatric client. PREPARATIONS: PO, IM, SC, IV DOSING: Adult (PO/SC/IM/IV): 50 – 150 mg q3 – 4h prn 3. Purpose prescribed. Underline reason your client is prescribed drug. THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS: Control of moderate to severe pain. USES: Relief of moderate to severe pain, for preoperative medication, for support of anesthesia, and for obstetric analgesia. 4. Major side effects & drug interactions. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Alcohol and other CNS depressants augment CNS depressant effects. Herbal – St. John’s Wort may cause increase sedation. SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, pruritus

5. Nursing Implications & teaching. • • • • • •

Make position changes slowly and in stages particularly from recumbent to upright posture. Lie down immediately if light-headedness or dizziness occurs. Lie down when feeling nauseated and to notify physician if this symptom persists. Nausea appears to worsen with ambulation. Avoid driving and other potentially hazardous activities until reaction to drug is known. Codeine may impair ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness and therefore to. Do not take alcohol or other CNS depressants unless approved by physician. Hyperactive cough may be lessened by avoiding irritants such as smoking, dust, fumes and other air pollutants. Humidification of ambient air may provide some relief. Do not breast feed while taking this drug.