Meperidine

(meh-PER-ih-deen)

Meperidine is a synthetic opioid that is structurally distinct from other opioids. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain, but its use has decreased over time due to its short duration of action and the availability of more effective alternatives.

Historical context

Meperidine was first synthesized in 1939 by German chemist Otto Eisleb as a potential antispasmodic agent. It gained popularity in the 1940s as a painkiller and was widely used in medical settings until more effective alternatives became available.

Medical formulations

Meperidine is available in oral tablets, oral solutions, and injectable forms (e.g., Demerol®️).

How long does meperidine stay in your system?

Meperidine has a half-life of approximately 2 to 4 hours. It takes roughly 10 to 20 hours for the drug to be completely eliminated from the body. However, its toxic metabolite, normeperidine, has a longer half-life of about 15 to 30 hours and can take 75 to 150 hours to be completely eliminated from the body.

Street names

Demmies, Peth, Dillies

Appearance

Meperidine pills are typically round and white and may be imprinted with the dosage and the manufacturer's logo.

Common pills

• Round, white pill with "M" in a square on one side and "50" on the other side (50 mg tablet)
• Round, white pill with "M" in a square on one side and "100" on the other side (100 mg tablet)

Warning: Consuming illicit drugs, including pressed pills, may result in unintended fentanyl exposure, leading to potentially fatal consequences. Exercise caution and consider using fentanyl testing strips to identify the presence of this dangerous substance in street drugs.