MEPERIDINE

synthetic narcotic analgesic (pain-relieving drug) used to alleviate both acute and chronic pain. It is an opioid, and thus its effects on the body resemble those of opium or morphine, one of opium's purified constituents. A common trade name for meperidine is Demerol. The drug acts principally on the central nervous system and on the neural elements of the bowel. It can be administered orally, in liquid or tablet form, or by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Its effects are felt within 15 minutes and last from 3 to 5 hours. Meperidine commonly is used to relieve pain during childbirth, although it may slow the respiratory rate of both mother and infant. Other side effects include drowsiness, lightheadedness, dryness of the mouth, weakness, and nausea. The drug is also highly addictive. Nevertheless, its side effects tend to be less severe than those of morphine, making it a preferable choice in many instances.