Meperidine
Demerol (meperidine) is a brand-name opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce pain signals. This medication is typically used when other pain relievers are not effective or tolerated.
Demerol is a prescription opioid used for moderate to severe pain relief when other treatments are inadequate.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 282381
- Generic
- Demerol
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Demerol is prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain, including pre-operative medication, support of anesthesia, and obstetrical analgesia. It is typically reserved for situations when other pain management options are not suitable.
Demerol works by binding to mu-opioid receptors throughout the nervous system, altering the perception of pain and the emotional response to it. This produces analgesia and can cause sedation and respiratory depression.
Demerol carries significant risks including dependence, addiction, and potentially fatal respiratory depression. Its active metabolite normeperidine accumulates with repeated dosing, limiting its use to acute short-term situations (generally not recommended for chronic pain). It should not be used with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of their use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy