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Drug Addiction
Demerol is a painkilling medication taken in pill, liquid or patch-form. Demerol dependency and abuse is an issue, as it is with many other types of opioid medications. The added danger of an opioid addiction also carries with it the danger of permanent damage to the kidneys and liver. Demerol prescriptions have declined over the past few years, but it can be prescribed for those who need an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
Some health care professionals believe Demerol to be more addictive than other types of opiate drugs. Like many other opiates, the drug has the potential to be misused, diverted and abused. A physical dependence to Demerol can develop rapidly because of the drugs fast action and the feelings of euphoria experienced during use. Demerol addiction can result with regular, continued use and can cause severe mental, physical and emotional side effects.
Demerol is considered a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, the government classifies drugs based upon the potential for abuse and dependency. A dependence on Demerol can be similar to that of morphine. With excessive use a user will develop the following signs of dependency:
The severity and length of withdrawal from Demerol will depend upon how long the drug has been used and in what amounts. A person with a Demerol addiction can experience symptoms of withdrawal for several weeks after discontinued use, it is strongly recommended to consult with a physician prior to stopping the drug. “Cold turkey” withdrawal symptoms often occur within 4-5 hours of the last dose and usually last for a period of 7-10 days. Demerol withdrawal symptoms can include, but are not limited to the following: anxiety, profuse sweating, insomnia, muscle spasms, chills, shivering and shaking.
A person with a Demerol addiction should be gradually tapered off the medication over an extended period of time. Treatment for the addiction should be facilitated under the guidance and supervision of a licensed medical doctor and is best conducted within the safety and structure of a detoxification facility or rehabilitation clinic. A dependence on Demerol which develops from a few weeks of regular use can usually be safely addressed with physician assistance and with minimal discomfort, but treatment will depend solely on the degree of addiction.
When a person makes a conscious choice to deal with a Demerol addiction, there is one important factor that is absolutely imperative to recovery and that is support. Seeking treatment should include cognitive-behavior therapy, group, family or individual counseling and spiritual consultation if requested. Addiction is a treatable condition that with the proper help and support a person can completely recover from.
If you or someone you love is facing a crippling addiction to Demerol, there is help available and anyone can achieve a life of freedom and sobriety. Contact us today for more information.
