Pethidine

Pethidine (also known as meperidine and sold under the brand name Demerol among others) is a synthetic opioid of the phenylpiperidine class. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain, and can also be used for anesthesia and for the treatment of shivering. Pethidine is less potent and has a shorter duration of action than morphine. It also has significant antimuscarinic effects.

Pharmacology

Pethidine is a synthetic opioid that is used as an analgesic. It is less potent than morphine and has a shorter duration of action. Pethidine has significant antimuscarinic effects, which can lead to dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.

Medical uses

Pethidine is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It can also be used for anesthesia and for the treatment of shivering. It is often used in the management of pain during labor and delivery, although there is evidence to suggest that it may delay the progress of labor.

Side effects

Common side effects of pethidine include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sedation. Less common side effects include respiratory depression, hypotension, and allergic reactions. Pethidine can also cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if used for extended periods of time.

Contraindications

Pethidine should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to pethidine or to any other components of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe respiratory depression, acute or severe bronchial asthma, or upper airway obstruction.

See also

• Opioid
• Analgesic
• Morphine

Pethidine Resources
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