The spelling of "Meperidine Hydrochloride" can be challenging due to its complex pronunciation. This medication is commonly used as a pain reliever, but its spelling can be confusing to those unfamiliar with the medical field. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced "mɛpəˈrɪdiːn haɪdrəˈklɔːraɪd". This phonetic transcription breaks down the pronunciation of each syllable, helping make the spelling more manageable. Correct spelling is crucial in medical settings, especially with medications, to ensure that patients receive the right treatment.
Meperidine hydrochloride, also known by its brand name Demerol, is a synthetic opioid analgesic medication primarily used for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. It belongs to the group of drugs known as narcotics or opioids, which act on the central nervous system to alleviate pain.
Meperidine hydrochloride works by binding to certain opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract, which then block or reduce the transmission of pain signals. It acts quickly, providing relief from pain within 10 to 15 minutes after administration, and its effects typically last for about 2 to 4 hours.
This medication is most commonly administered through injection, either intramuscularly or intravenously. It can also be taken orally as a tablet or liquid solution, although oral formulations tend to have a slower onset of action. The dosage of meperidine hydrochloride is determined based on factors such as the patient's weight, age, and the severity of their pain.
While meperidine hydrochloride is an effective pain reliever, it is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Prolonged use or misuse of this medication can lead to physical dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. Therefore, it should be used strictly under the supervision of a healthcare professional and in accordance with prescribed dosage instructions.
The word "Meperidine" is derived from the chemical name N-methyl-4-phenyl-4-piperidinecarboxamide. The "me" in "meperidine" refers to the methyl group (CH3) attached to the nitrogen atom, while "peridine" refers to the piperidine ring structure in the molecule.
The term "Hydrochloride" refers to the hydrochloric acid salt form of the drug. It is used to improve the stability and solubility of the compound, making it suitable for pharmaceutical use.
Overall, the word "Meperidine Hydrochloride" describes a specific chemical compound used as a synthetic opioid analgesic medication.