Demerol, also known as meperidine, is a powerful — and powerfully addictive — painkiller. Similar in nature to morphine, Demerol is an opioid narcotic that can cause serious side effects when abused or used in conjunction with other substances, including alcohol. Withdrawing from meperidine alone is not only extremely challenging, it is also unwise because of the risk of relapse and overdose. The good news is that The Ranch PA’s treatment center for meperidine addiction can help you or your loved one recover from the effects of Demerol. Our medically supervised detox, our holistic, progressive Demerol rehab program, and our supportive Aftercare Program help people manage the physical, emotional, and spiritual withdrawal symptoms to achieve better overall treatment outcomes. We employ progressive techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Music Therapy, and Biofeedback that help you figure out why substance abuse ever became a problem. Discover how The Ranch PA’s small, community-oriented rehabilitation center can help you reengage with a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
The Short and Long-Term Effects of Meperidine
Users typically ingest Demerol, although some inject the drug into the veins or muscles. Demerol works quickly in the human body to produce a wide range of physical effects. In addition to its painkilling power, those who take Demerol report feelings of euphoria combined with confusion, the reduced ability to think clearly or operate machinery safely, difficult concentrating, and more. Severe side effects include tremors, seizures, and delirium. These effects can last up to two and half hours; doctors typically prescribe Demerol for severe pain, coughing, and the shivering associated with anesthesia. Demerol is also extremely strong. When compared to other opioids such as hydromorphone and oxycodone, users rate Demerol as more powerful. It accumulates in the body, and over time, the user develops a tolerance to it, requiring more and more Demerol to achieve the same euphoric effects. Unfortunately, the body eventually learns that it cannot function without it, leading to dependence. Adverse effects include vomiting and nausea, gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, respiratory depression, clammy skin, low blood pressure, coma, and death from overdose. Taking Demerol on a long-term basis is extremely dangerous. There are a variety of serious lasting effects of taking Demerol regularly, including anxiety, kidney failure, convulsions or seizures, and mood changes. Demerol’s addictive nature and the severity of its side effects led doctors to prescribe other opiate painkillers in its place; however, these replacement painkillers are addictive, too. Quite simply, Demerol can only be used safely when a doctor administers every dose and has the power to adjust or eliminate it.
Demerol / Meperidine Rehabilitation at The Ranch PA
Those who try to kick a Demerol addiction on their own often encounter severe withdrawal side effects, which include vomiting and diarrhea, severe pain, insomnia, and restlessness. If you or someone you love is addicted to Demerol, seeking professional help from a Demerol rehab is advisable. Prolonged use of Demerol usually indicates a need for a qualified rehab facility because the addict is both physically and mentally dependent on the drug. At The Ranch PA, our progressive drug rehabilitation program takes an individualistic, holistic approach to therapy. Those in our small client community form strong bonds with one another during rehab and become friends after participating in our personal group therapy sessions. Our qualified, caring therapists and medical professionals work with our clients to determine the best, most appropriate treatment plans, including dual diagnosis, if necessary. For more information on Demerol rehab and intensive inpatient drug addiction help, call us now at 1-877-548-4794. Photo via
