Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection: US FDA label indications

Indications and usage (label excerpt)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate. Limitations of Use Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection should not be used for treatment of chronic pain. Prolonged Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection use may increase the risk of toxicity (e.g., seizures) from the accumulation of the meperidine metabolite, normeperidine. Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse, with opioids, even at recommended doses [see WARNINGS ], reserve meperidine hydrochloride for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options [e.g., non-opioid analgesics or opioid combination products] Have not been tolerated, or are not expected to be tolerated, Have not provided adequate analgesia, or are not expected to provide adequate analgesia

Warnings (label excerpt)

WARNINGS Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection contains meperidine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection exposes users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse [see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE ]. Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection. Addiction can occur at recommended dosages and if the drug is misused or abused. Assess each patient's risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection, and monitor all patients receiving Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection for the development of these behaviors or conditions. Risks are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol abuse or addiction) or mental illness (e.g., major depression). The potential for these risks should not, however, prevent the proper managem…

Excerpts are shortened. Read the full label, and ask a pharmacist or prescriber about any medicine. Full label on DailyMed(opens in a new tab) For products sold in Canada, see the Health Canada Drug Product Database(opens in a new tab).