Disease Injury Nutrition Poison
Special Topic Surgery Symptoms Test
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
Z

Meperidine hydrochloride overdose
Definition:
Poisoning from an overdose of meperidine.
Alternative Names:
Demerol; Mepergan Forte
Poisonous Ingredient:
  • meperidine
Where Found:
  • Demerol
  • Mepergan Forte
Symptoms:


Home Treatment:
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.
Before Calling Emergency:
Determine the following:
  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  • the time it was swallowed
  • the amount swallowed
  • it the medication was prescribed for the patient
Poison Control, or a local emergency number:
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
What to expect at the emergency room:
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
  • Use gastric lavage.
  • Administer activated charcoal.
  • Administer a laxative.
  • Give a counteracting medication (narcotic antagonist). Multiple doses may be needed.
  • Administer Intravenous fluids as needed.
  • Monitor breathing.
  • Treat the symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis):
If an antidote can be given, recovery from an acute overdose occurs within 24 to 48 hours.
Review Date: 1/7/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com