Demerol

Demerol, also known as meperidine, is an opioid, an class of narcotic analgesics or a central nervous system depressant similar to morphine. It is prescribed as a painkiller, analgesic, and sedative for patients suffering from moderate to severe pain. Found in tablet form it can also be taken by mouth in liquid or syrup form. Swallowing undiluted Demerol liquid can numb the mouth. If the tablets are crushed, snorted or injected this can lead to serious side effects and/or death. Demerol is not recommended for use by over 65 years of age due to safety issues. Other medications have proven more effective for treating older adults.

Alternative names
Isonipecaine, Demerol Hydrochloride, Demerol Hydrochloride Syrup, Pethidine

Signs of Demerol Abuse

Lightheadedness
Vomiting
Constipation
Sweats
Nausea
Loss of concentration
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Dry Mouth
Headache
Weakness
Extreme Calm
Hallucination
Flushing
Seizures*

(source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000583/)
(* Demoral abuse is specifically dangerous for those with kidney problems as it builds up in the blood stream).

Demerol Withdrawal Symptoms

Restlessness
Watery Eyes
Stuffy nose
Yawning
Sweating,
Chills
Muscle Spasms and Pain
Irritability
Nervousness
Stomach Pains
Vomiting
Loss of Appetite
Diarrhea
Increased Heart rate
Back Pain
Seizures
Hallucinations
Hives
Difficulty Urinating
Respiratory Distress

(source: MedlinePlus, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds)
While dealing with withdrawal is unpleasant, painful, and psychologically challenging, a patient should never abruptly stop taking the drug on his or her own. Withdrawal should be monitored and supervised by a trained, licensed medical professional with expertise in drug addiction and detox. There is no approved use for Demerol in treating addictive disorders. Patients who abuse Demerol should note that it is known for its addictive potential. Certain narcotic antagonists taken to treat withdrawal or overdose can bring on acute withdrawal symptoms. It is strongly urged that detox be supervised and monitored by trained physicians in addiction and that detox be immediately followed by addiction treatment.