Demerol withdrawal is physical and psychological symptoms which occur as a result of suddenly stopping use of the drug Demerol. Demerol is a narcotic opioid pain reliever that is similar to morphine. It exerts its effects on the central nervous system, essentially tricking the brain by replacing the feeling of pain with a "high." Individuals who are given Demerol for pain are basically feeling the euphoric effects of the medication rather than their pain. Demerol was the first synthetic opioid drug on the market, synthesized in 1936. It was frequently administered in hospital settings to treat moderate to severe pain, and at times during a surgical procedure to enhance the effects of anesthesia. However, the duration of Demerol's pain relieving effects is shorter than other narcotics making it an inferior medication for pain control.
Demerol addiction and abuse is a very real and fairly common problem. Demerol may be more likely to be abused than other prescription opioids such as oxycodone, due to its rapid onset and intensity of effects. Individuals addicted to Demerol get an instant high and can feel quite euphoric when they use the drug. However, the effects of the drug do not last long and users will seek out and take more Demerol to maintain their sedated and euphoric state. This is the cycle of addiction and is why Demerol abuse can be so destructive. Individuals who use Demerol in this way are at significant risk of developing both psychological and physical dependence to the drug. If they suddenly stop using the drug, they will begin to experience uncomfortable and painful Demerol withdrawal symptoms and will do just about anything to get more of the drug. Individuals addicted to Demerol will often try to buy it through illegal means, such as from foreign countries or online sources that do not require a prescription.
Symptoms of Demerol withdrawal can vary in intensity depending on length of time the individual has been using the drug and dosage. The symptoms associated with Demerol withdrawal are usually experienced within a few hours after the last administration. Early withdrawal symptoms include watery eyes, insomnia, diarrhea, runny nose, yawning, sneezing, dysphoria, sweating, and in most cases a strong drug craving. As Demerol withdrawal symptoms progress the individual is likely to experience restlessness, irritability, loss of appetite, body aches, severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, tremors, irritability, and even stronger and more intense drug craving. Severe depression and vomiting are also very common.
As with most opioid withdrawal, an individual going through Demerol withdrawal may experience chills or cold flashes which will alternate with hot flashes, kicking movements of the legs, pale and clammy skin, anxiety, weakness, convulsions, dehydration, thoughts of suicide, and excessive sweating. It is possible that the individual will have severe pain in the bones and muscles of the back and extremities as well as muscle spasms. During severe Demerol withdrawal the individual's heart rate and blood pressure can become elevated which can lead to a heart attack, blot clot or stroke.
Withdrawal is a common physical response to stopping many medications like Demerol, not just street drugs. Individuals should be aware of the risks involved with Demerol withdrawal, and should seek the help that they need through this process at a long-term inpatient drug treatment facility where they can be detoxed and rehabilitated.
In addition to the dangers of Demerol Withdrawal, use of the drug can lead to severe organ damage as well. Cardiac arrest and respiratory damage have been known to occur in individuals with a history of prolonged use. The drug requires repeated use to be effective, and using the drug in this way can lead to serious long term health problems, and in the most extreme cases Demorol addiction can kill.
Demerol can be toxic in high doses and has a long list of side effects which include:
If you or someone you know is dealing with Demerol withdrawal or addiction, it is important that they get the help they need as soon as possible. Their best bet for treatment is at a long-term inpatient drug treatment facility, where professional and medically trained staff can ensure that the individual is safely detoxed from the drug. Once this is complete and the individual has overcome the physical side of Demerol addiction, they can begin to address the psychological issues that are at the root of their problem. This will ensure a lasting recovery, as the individual will be able to get through life without the use of drugs. Get the help you need through Demerol withdrawal today before it is too late.