Meperitab (Pethidine): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions

Meperitab (pethidine/meperidine) is a synthetic opioid analgesic similar to morphine but with faster onset, shorter duration, less respiratory depression, and lower addiction potential.

Indications

Moderate to severe pain: postoperative, trauma, cancer, labor. Routes: oral, IM, IV, rectal.

Pharmacology

Mu-opioid receptor agonist; inhibits ascending pain pathways. Also has anticholinergic and antihistaminic effects.

Side Effects

Common: nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, sedation. Rare: respiratory depression, hypotension, bronchospasm, seizures.

Contraindications & Precautions

Contraindicated in hypersensitivity, asthma/respiratory disorders, paralytic ileus. Use caution in hepatic/renal impairment, elderly, pregnancy/breastfeeding.

Interactions

Alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers, antidepressants → increased CNS/respiratory depression, hypotension.

Overdose

Respiratory depression, coma, death. Treatment: supportive care, naloxone.

Dosage (Adults)

• Oral: 50–100 mg every 3–4 hours
• IM/IV: 25–100 mg every 3–4 hours
• Rectal: 50–100 mg every 4–6 hours

Pregnancy

Not recommended, especially during labor; crosses placenta, causes neonatal respiratory depression.