What is meperitab?

Definition of Meperitab

Meperitab, also known as pethidine, is a synthetic opioid analgesic that is similar in therapeutic activity to morphine. Compared to morphine, meperitab has a more rapid onset of action, a shorter duration of action, a lower potential for respiratory depression, and a lower risk of addiction.

Meperitab Uses and Indications

Meperitab is used primarily to relieve moderate to severe pain, such as postoperative pain, trauma pain, and cancer pain. It is also used to relieve pain during labor and delivery. Meperitab can be administered orally, intramuscularly, intravenously, or rectally.

Pharmacology of Meperitab

Meperitab is a mu-opioid receptor agonist. It binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, resulting in inhibition of the ascending pain pathways and decreased pain perception. Meperitab also has anticholinergic and antihistaminic effects, which can contribute to its pain-relieving effects.

Side effects of Meperitab

The most common side effects of meperitab include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, and sedation. Less common side effects include respiratory depression, hypotension, bronchospasm, and seizures.

Contraindications and Precautions

Meperitab is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug, in patients with asthma or other respiratory disorders, and in patients with paralytic ileus. Meperitab should be used with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, in elderly patients, and in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Drug Interactions with Meperitab

Meperitab can interact with a variety of other drugs, including alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers, and antidepressants. These interactions can lead to increased CNS depression, respiratory depression, and hypotension.

Overdosage of Meperitab

Overdosage of meperitab can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death. Treatment of meperitab overdosage includes supportive care, such as mechanical ventilation, and the administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist.

Meperitab Administration

Meperitab can be administered orally, intramuscularly, intravenously, or rectally. The usual oral dose for adults is 50 to 100 mg every 3 to 4 hours. The usual intramuscular or intravenous dose for adults is 25 to 100 mg every 3 to 4 hours. The usual rectal dose for adults is 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours.

Meperitab Pregnancy

Meperitab is not recommended for use during pregnancy, particularly during labor and delivery. Meperitab can cross the placenta and cause respiratory depression in the newborn.