Demerol®

Demerol® (generic name: meperidine hydrochloride) is a prescription-only pain medication. It is also frequently prescribed for sedation before surgery and for use during labor and delivery. For lessening pain during a baby's delivery, Demerol® is usually injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly.

Newborns and Demerol®

Demerol® can adversely affect a woman giving birth and her infant. As a Schedule II narcotic, Demerol® is a very strong opiate, and a newborn whose mother was administered Demerol® during the delivery may experience symptoms of withdrawal, including:

• Excessive crying
• Fast breathing
• Fever
• Hyperactive reflexes
• Increased amount of stools
• Sneezing
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Yawning

Demerol® Side Effects and Risks

Adults who are treated with Demerol® may suffer similar side effects; i.e.

• Lightheadedness
• Constipation, urinary retention
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Euphoria or dysphoria
• Facial flushing
• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting
• Sedation
• Sweating
• Weakness

At a too-high dose, Demerol® can cause life-threatening respiratory depression. It is approximately as strong an analgesic as morphine, but it has a faster onset of action, and this advantage is why it is still sometimes chosen as an analgesic over other opiate drugs. Demerol® is administered in tablet form, or as injection (subcutaneous, intravenous or intramuscular).

Damages

Demerol® can do serious damage to an adult, child or infant. A patient who is left with physical injuries due to treatment with the drug may be eligible for financial compensation for costs and losses such as:

• Treatment for the injuries or medical problems, including hospitalization
• Lost work time
• Lost income
• Loss of future income; loss of a career
• Rehabilitation — physical and occupational
• Help around the house that has become necessary due to the patient's medical condition
• In fatal cases, funeral and burial costs
• Loss of a loved one
• Emotional suffering

Talk with a Flood Law Group Attorney

Our law firm is composed of very experienced and knowledgeable attorneys who are committed to protecting the rights of individuals and families who have been harmed by dangerous medications. To schedule a consultation contact our firm today.