What does meperidine mean?
Meperidine is a synthetic opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is often prescribed in combination with other medications to manage pain. Meperidine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce the perception of pain. The use of meperidine can lead to dependence and addiction, and it is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States. Patients taking meperidine should be closely monitored for signs of addiction or overdose. Meperidine is available in various forms, including tablets and injectable solutions. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and usage instructions carefully to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
nounA synthetic opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain.
- A synthetic opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain.
"The doctor prescribed meperidine for the patient's postoperative pain."
"The doctor prescribed meperidine for the patient's postoperative pain."
"The patient was given meperidine to manage her chronic pain."
The plural form 'meperidines' is used to refer to multiple doses or instances of the medication.
"The patient was given multiple doses of meperidines to manage her chronic pain."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of meperidine
Meperidine was first synthesized in 1939 by German chemist Max Beyer. The name 'meperidine' is derived from the chemical compound pethidine, which is a related opioid analgesic. Meperidine is also known as pethidine in some countries.
How meperidine is actually used
Meperidine is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States. It is often used in combination with other medications to treat pain. The use of meperidine can lead to dependence and addiction.