Introduced
as an analgesic in the 1930s, meperidine produces
effects that are similar, but not identical, to
morphine (shorter duration of action and reduced
antitussive and antidiarrheal actions). Currently
it is used for pre-anesthesia and the relief of
moderate to severe pain, particularly in obstetrics
and post-operative situations. Meperidine is available
in tablets, syrups, and injectable forms under
generic and brand name (Demerol®, Mepergan®,
etc.) Schedule II preparations. Several analogues
of meperidine have been clandestinely produced.
During the clandestine synthesis of the analogue
MPPP, a neurotoxic by-product (MPTP) was produced.
A number of individuals who consumed the MPPP-MPTP
preparation developed an irreversible Parkinsonian-like
syndrome. It was later found that MPTP destroys
the same neurons as those damaged in the Parkinsonian-like
syndrome. It was later found that MPTP destroys
the same neurons as those damaged in Parkinsons
Disease.
Source: DEA
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