Demerol Injections for Migraines
Demerol (also referred to by its generic name, Meperidine HCL) is a narcotic pain reliever (or opioid) comparable to morphine. The drug is most commonly prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain in an emergency room setting or before or during a surgical procedure.
How is Demerol administered and how does it work?
Demerol may be administered orally or by injecting the drug into a vein, muscle or just beneath the skin. A Demerol injection is given slowly while the patient is lying down to minimize the risk of side effects. The drug works by interacting with centers in the brain to increase the body’s ability to tolerate pain.
What are the common side effects?
Demerol is a physically and mentally addictive narcotic pain reliever that should not be taken longer than two days. Side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Flushing
- Pain or swelling at the injection site
Is Demerol for migraines and headache disorders FDA approved?
Demerol is an FDA approved drug for the general treatment of moderate to severe pain. However, the narcotic has not been approved specifically for the treatment of migraines or other headache disorders.
Where are the injection sites for Demerol?
Demerol may be injected intravenously for fast relief or (more commonly) intramuscularly into an area near the hip. If a saline IV is already in place to combat dehydration, the drug can also be injected through the existing IV line.
Does Demerol work better for specific migraine and headache types?
Demerol is not a first-line treatment option for migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches or any other type of headache condition and is only used in emergency situations when other medications fail to relieve pain or a migraine lasts longer than 72 hours.
