What Is Demerol?

Demerol is a prescription medication given to patients experiencing moderate to severe breakthrough pain. Demerol should only be taken in situations in which sudden pain occurs or in conjunction with surgical procedures.

Demerol is classified as an opioid analgesic, which means it reduces pain by changing the way the brain and body respond to it.

Demerol Addiction Treatment and Rehab

Demerol has the potential to produce side effects in some patients, just like any other new medication. The common side effects of Demerol which do not require medical attention include nausea, vomiting, constipation, sweating, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, and pain or redness at the injection site. if these less serious side effects of Demerol persist or worsen over time, notify your doctor.

Although rare, Demerol can produce serious side effects in some patients. Serious Demerol side effects include mood changes, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, stomach or abdominal pain, difficulty urinating, slow or irregular heartbeat, tremors, vision changes, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, and weight loss. Get medical attention as soon as possible if you notice any of the following after taking Demerol: fainting, seizures, slow or shallow breathing, severe drowsiness, and difficulty waking from sleep.

A very serious allergic reaction to Demerol is uncommon, but you should seek medical attention immediately if you notice the following signs of an allergic reaction: rash, itching or swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.

Treatment Options for Demerol Addiction Symptoms

Patients taking Demerol responsibly may still develop a physical dependence or psychological addiction. If you begin to suspect someone in your life is suffering from a Demerol addiction, do not hesitate to seek professional help and support. Symptoms for a Demerol addiction would typically include becoming obsessed with finding and taking Demerol, losing interest in hobbies or activities that were once found enjoyable, performing poorly or irregularly at school or work, and suffering financial losses due to spending money on Demerol.

Demerol Medical Detox

If you do not wish to continue taking Demerol, schedule a meeting with your doctor to discuss alternatives for treating your pain. Do not abruptly stop taking Demerol. By suddenly stopping a Demerol treatment plan, you greatly increase the risk of unwanted withdrawal symptoms. In fact, you should never adjust your Demerol dosage levels or treatment schedule without explicit instruction from your doctor.

Patients who no longer want to take this medication will typically be given a lowered dose gradually over time by their doctor. This strategy of tapering off the medication helps patients avoid severe withdrawal.

Demerol Rehabilitation Programs

People who have developed a Demerol addiction can greatly benefit from the rehabilitation programs offered by The Recovery Village. Regardless of whether a patient begins treatment with inpatient or outpatient rehab, they will first be required to safely detox from Demerol. Once all the medication is completely cleansed from the patient’s system, they will participate in individual and group counseling sessions hosted by The Recovery Village. Patients will also have the opportunity to enjoy recreational therapy programs.

Inpatient Demerol Rehab

Inpatient Demerol rehab allows patients to live at one of The Recovery Village’s designated inpatient centers while they overcome their Demerol addiction. This type of rehab program is especially helpful for patients who may have difficulties recovering due to distractions at home or those who have severe Demerol addiction.

Outpatient Demerol Rehab

After completing inpatient Demerol rehab, patients begin the second leg of treatment with outpatient Demerol rehab. Outpatient Demerol rehab allows patients to live at home while they attend scheduled treatment appointments at The Recovery Village. Some patients with mild Demerol addiction may opt to begin recovery with outpatient Demerol rehab and skip the inpatient option.

Choosing a Demerol Rehab Center

Choosing a Demerol rehab center to support your unique needs is an integral step in the recovery process. Schedule a meeting with your doctor to discuss which features you should look for in a rehab center. Other factors like how long you have been taking Demerol and your Demerol dosage levels are important to cover throughout this discussion.

If you or someone you love is suffering from Demerol addiction or another form of a substance use disorder, do not hesitate in seeking the help you need. The Recovery Village has many resources and programs for patients looking to live a happier, substance-free life.

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.