DEMEROL

Drug Name: DEMEROL

DEMEROL DESCRIPTION:
MEPERIDINE - ORAL TABLET (meh-PAIR-id-een)

COMMON DEMEROL BRAND NAME(S):
Demerol

DEMEROL SIDE EFFECTS:
Stomach upset, blurred vision, drowsiness, constipation, dizziness or lightheadedness may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: rapid heart rate, fainting, mood changes, hallucinations, tremors. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE DEMEROL:
DEMEROL: Take this by mouth with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Because DEMEROL is more effective for preventing pain than treating once it occurs, this is usually taken regularly for a short time. Use DEMEROL exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because DEMEROL can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using DEMEROL without your doctor's approval. Over time, DEMEROL may not work as well. Consult your doctor if DEMEROL is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

DEMEROL USES:
DEMEROL is a narcotic analgesic used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

DEMEROL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: asthma (or other breathing problems), kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, head injury, seizure disorder, depression, drug dependency, any drug allergies. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol consumption because it will add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of DEMEROL. The elderly and children may be more sensitive to the effects of DEMEROL. Use cautiously. DEMEROL should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. DEMEROL is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, no harm has been noted to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DEMEROL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), chlorpromazine, cimetidine. Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that make you drowsy, such as: antidepressants, medication for seizures, sleeping pills, other narcotic pain medication (e.g., codeine), tranquilizers. Limit your intake of alcohol while taking DEMEROL. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

DEMEROL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.

DEMEROL NOTES:
Do not share DEMEROL with others. It is against the law.

MISSED DEMEROL DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

DEMEROL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.