Pethidine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Opioid Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
YES
Summary
Pethidine is used to relieve moderate to severe pain, which is discomfort that can range from intense to unbearable. It's often given for short-term pain relief after surgery, injury, or during labor, which is the process of childbirth.
Pethidine works by binding to opioid receptors, which are parts of the brain and nervous system that respond to pain. This action changes how the body perceives pain, making it feel less intense, similar to turning down the volume on a loudspeaker.
Pethidine is usually given as an injection by a healthcare professional, which means it's delivered directly into the body using a needle. The typical dose for adults is 50 to 150 mg every 3 to 4 hours as needed for pain, with a maximum of 600 mg per day.
Common side effects of pethidine include dizziness, which is a feeling of being unsteady, nausea, which is an upset stomach, and sweating, which is the body's way of cooling down. These effects can vary in how often they occur and how severe they are.
Pethidine can cause serious breathing problems, which are difficulties in getting enough air, especially in high doses. It can also be addictive, which means it can lead to dependence. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives, which are substances that calm the nervous system, while using pethidine.
Indications and Purpose
How does pethidine work?
Pethidine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system, which changes the way your body perceives pain. Think of it like turning down the volume on a loudspeaker. By reducing the "volume" of pain signals, pethidine helps relieve moderate to severe pain. This effect makes it useful for short-term pain relief, such as after surgery or injury. Always use pethidine as prescribed by your doctor to ensure safe and effective pain management.
Is pethidine effective?
Yes, pethidine is effective for relieving moderate to severe pain. It works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. Pethidine is often used for short-term pain relief, such as after surgery or injury. Clinical studies and patient experiences support its effectiveness for these purposes. However, it's important to use pethidine as prescribed by your doctor to ensure safe and effective pain management. If you have concerns about its effectiveness, talk with your healthcare provider.
What is pethidine?
Pethidine is a medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It belongs to a class of drugs called opioids, which work by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. Pethidine is often used for short-term pain relief, such as after surgery or injury. It's not typically used for long-term pain management due to the risk of dependence. Always use pethidine as prescribed by your doctor to ensure safe and effective pain relief.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take pethidine?
Pethidine is usually used for short-term treatment of acute pain, such as after surgery or injury. The duration of use depends on your specific condition and response to treatment. It's not typically used for long-term pain management due to the risk of dependence. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use. If you have concerns about how long to take pethidine, talk with your doctor. They can provide guidance based on your health needs.
How do I dispose of pethidine?
To dispose of pethidine, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw pethidine in the trash at home. First, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take pethidine?
Pethidine is usually taken as prescribed by your doctor. It's often given as an injection by a healthcare professional. If you're taking it at home, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Pethidine can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once. Avoid alcohol while taking pethidine, as it can increase side effects. Always follow your doctor's specific advice.
How long does it take for pethidine to start working?
Pethidine starts working quickly, usually within 10 to 15 minutes after administration. The full therapeutic effect is typically achieved within 30 to 60 minutes. Individual factors like age, weight, and overall health can affect how quickly pethidine works. Always take pethidine exactly as prescribed by your doctor for the best results. If you have concerns about how quickly pethidine is working, talk with your doctor. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation.
How should I store pethidine?
Store pethidine at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Don't store pethidine in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect its effectiveness. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication according to local guidelines.
What is the usual dose of pethidine?
The usual dose of pethidine for adults is typically 50 to 150 mg every 3 to 4 hours as needed for pain. The exact dose depends on your specific condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your needs. The maximum recommended dose is usually 600 mg per day. For elderly patients or those with kidney or liver problems, lower doses may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take pethidine with other prescription drugs?
Pethidine has several concerning drug interactions. It can interact with MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant, increasing the risk of serious side effects like serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. Pethidine can also interact with other central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines, increasing the risk of severe drowsiness and breathing problems. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to prevent harmful interactions.
Can pethidine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Pethidine is not recommended while breastfeeding. It can pass into breast milk and may affect the breastfed infant, potentially causing drowsiness or breathing problems. The effects on milk supply are not well-documented, but caution is advised. If you're breastfeeding and need pain relief, talk with your doctor about safer medication options. They can help you choose a treatment that allows you to nurse your baby safely.
Can pethidine be taken safely while pregnant?
Pethidine is not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Limited evidence is available on its safety during pregnancy. It can cross the placenta and affect the unborn baby, potentially causing breathing problems or withdrawal symptoms after birth. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest pain management options. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does pethidine have adverse effects?
Yes, pethidine can have adverse effects, which are unwanted reactions to the medication. Common adverse effects include dizziness, nausea, and sweating. These effects vary in frequency and severity. Serious side effects include difficulty breathing, confusion, and severe allergic reactions, which require immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms while taking pethidine, contact your doctor. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to the medication and suggest appropriate actions.
Does pethidine have any safety warnings?
Yes, pethidine has important safety warnings. It can cause serious breathing problems, especially in high doses or when combined with other medications that affect breathing. Pethidine can also be habit-forming, leading to addiction or misuse. Not following safety warnings can result in overdose, which is life-threatening. Always take pethidine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives while using this medication. If you experience difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking pethidine?
No, it's best to avoid alcohol while taking pethidine. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of pethidine, leading to increased drowsiness and dizziness. This combination can also cause serious breathing problems, which require emergency medical attention. If you do choose to drink, limit your alcohol intake and watch for warning signs like difficulty breathing or extreme drowsiness. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking pethidine to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking pethidine?
Exercise with caution while taking pethidine. This medication can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which may limit your ability to exercise safely. During physical activity, you might feel lightheaded or weak. To exercise safely, avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports. Listen to your body and stop exercising if you feel dizzy or fatigued. Talk with your doctor about your exercise routine while taking pethidine to ensure it's safe for your specific situation.
Is it safe to stop pethidine?
No, it's not safe to stop pethidine suddenly without medical advice. Pethidine is usually used for short-term relief of acute pain. Stopping it suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, which may include anxiety, sweating, and nausea. If you need to stop taking pethidine, your doctor may suggest gradually reducing the dose to minimize withdrawal effects. Always talk with your doctor before stopping pethidine to ensure a safe and effective transition.
Is pethidine addictive?
Yes, pethidine is addictive and has habit-forming potential. It can lead to physical and psychological dependence, especially with long-term use. Signs of dependence include cravings for the drug, taking more than prescribed, and withdrawal symptoms when not using it. To prevent dependence, use pethidine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid increasing the dose or frequency without medical advice. If you have concerns about addiction, talk to your doctor. They can help manage your treatment safely.
Is pethidine safe for the elderly?
Pethidine should be used with caution in the elderly. Older adults are more vulnerable to the side effects of medications, including dizziness, confusion, and breathing problems. These risks are more frequently observed among elderly users of pethidine. If pethidine is necessary, doctors may prescribe lower doses and monitor the patient closely. Always discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before using pethidine if you are elderly.
What are the most common side effects of pethidine?
Common side effects of pethidine include dizziness, nausea, and sweating. These are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking the medication. The frequency of these side effects can vary, but they are generally considered common. If you experience these side effects, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns or if the side effects persist. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to pethidine and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking pethidine?
Pethidine has several important contraindications. Don't use it if you're allergic to pethidine or its ingredients, as this can cause severe allergic reactions. It's also contraindicated in people with severe respiratory problems, which affect breathing, or those taking MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant. Caution is needed for people with liver or kidney problems, as pethidine can worsen these conditions. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before using pethidine.
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