As with most prescription drugs, many people do not realize they can develop an addiction to Meperidine. Regular abuse of this painkiller can quickly lead to tolerance—requiring the user to take more of the drug to feel its effects—and physical dependence. Physical dependence occurs when the user has reached a state where if they stop taking Meperidine or lessen the amount they take, they begin experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Addiction to Meperidine occurs when the user begins to act in ways that are damaging to them in order to continue Meperidine use.
Once a Meperidine addiction has developed, users normally experience difficulty quitting the drug—even if they really want to. When an addicted user quits taking Meperidine, they’ll experience harsh withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety and nausea. This causes many people to relapse in an attempt to feel better.
Understanding Meperidine
Meperidine is the brand name for a form of meperidine that is injectable, an opioid painkiller that is also referred to as pethidine. Classified as a narcotic analgesic, the drug is used to treat moderate to severe pain, with effects similar to morphine or oxycodone. Although Meperidine is only one-tenth as potent as morphine, it is short acting and has a high risk of abuse.
Meperidine comes in tablet or liquid forms. The tablets are circular in shape, white in color and come in 50 mg or 100 mg strengths. As a liquid, Meperidine comes in a syrup or as an injectable solution; however, the injectable form is typically only administered by medical professionals. When used as prescribed, Meperidine syrup and tablets are taken orally.
As classified by the Controlled Substances Act, Meperidine is a schedule II controlled substance—it cannot legally be obtained without a prescription. Some people who abuse Meperidine buy it on the streets under the names “demmies”, “dillies,” or “dust.”
Meperidine Effects and Abuse
Meperidine abuse is dangerous because it increases the chance of an overdose. Ingesting large amounts of the drug can depress and stop respiratory function, which can cause death. Other symptoms of Meperidine overdose include:
- – Stupor
- – Coma
- – Severe drowsiness
- – Limp or weak muscles
- – Hypothermia
- – Cold, clammy skin
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
