Meperidine (Demerol) Addiction: Symptoms, Causes, Effects, Treatment, and Prevention

Meperidine addiction involves escalating use and difficulty stopping, often leading to health complications and personal challenges like job loss and strained relationships. Meperidine, a synthetic opioid used for pain relief, is highly addictive when misused. Tolerance builds quickly, requiring higher doses, which worsens dependency. Withdrawal symptoms make quitting difficult, and prolonged misuse impacts both physical and mental health. Those struggling with addiction may find their entire lives disrupted as they grapple with the ongoing consequences.

The main Demerol addiction symptoms, according to Marcia L. Buck (2011) in the study “Is Meperidine the Drug That Just Won’t Die?”, include physical signs like nausea, sweating, and respiratory depression, along with psychological symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. Behavioral changes such as secrecy, withdrawal from social activities, and increased drug-seeking behavior are also common indicators of addiction.

The primary causes of Demerol addiction stem from both genetic and environmental factors. Prolonged use, misuse of the drug for recreational purposes, or having a personal or family history of substance abuse increase the risk of developing an addiction.

The effects of Demerol addiction are severe and include physical deterioration, cognitive impairment, and psychological distress. Long-term use leads to liver damage, respiratory issues, and significant mental health problems.

Treatment for Demerol addiction involves medical detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms, behavioral therapy to address underlying psychological issues, and the use of medications like methadone or buprenorphine to help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. The success of treatment depends on the individual’s commitment and access to comprehensive care.

Preventing Demerol addiction involves strict adherence to medical guidelines, avoiding misuse, and monitoring for early signs of dependence. Education about the risks associated with opioid use also helps in preventing addiction.

The risk of a Demerol overdose is significantly higher when combined with alcohol or other depressants, leading to severe respiratory depression and potentially death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), opioids account for 80% of drug-related deaths globally, with naloxone being a critical intervention for reversing opioid overdoses when administered promptly.

Preventing relapse after recovering from Demerol addiction includes ongoing therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. Continuous medical follow-up is important in reducing the likelihood of relapse.

When comparing Meperidine and morphine addiction, both opioids have a high potential for abuse. However, some studies suggest that morphine is slightly more addictive due to its stronger effects on the brain’s reward system. Both drugs require similar treatments for addiction, with comparable risks of relapse and overdose.

What Is Meperidine (Demerol)?

Meperidine (Demerol) is a synthetic opioid used primarily for the treatment of moderate to severe pain, especially in postoperative care or injury management. Classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, it has a high potential for misuse and addiction. According to the National Center for Health Statistics (Frenk et al., 2019), approximately 6.5% of adults in the United States used prescription opioids, including meperidine, between 2013 and 2016, with 4.7% of adults misusing them during that time​.

Meperidine is prescribed for its rapid onset of action and short duration, making it useful for acute pain management where quick relief is needed. However, its potential for misuse and addiction is significant due to the body’s ability to quickly develop tolerance, leading to higher dosages and dependence. The drug’s addictive properties stem from its ability to stimulate the brain’s reward system, much like other opioids, leading to compulsive use. According to Marcia L. Buck (2011), in the study “Is Meperidine the Drug That Just Won’t Die?”, meperidine’s rapid onset and short duration of action are key contributors to the development of tolerance and dependence, making it more likely to be misused compared to other opioids.

What Are the Symptoms of Demerol Addiction?

The symptoms of Demerol addiction involve both physical dependence, such as withdrawal symptoms like nausea and shaking when not using the drug, and psychological dependence, such as cravings and an obsessive need to continue using it despite knowing the risks. These symptoms range from physical signs such as nausea and sweating to psychological issues like anxiety and irritability. As addiction progresses, users often display behaviors that signal a loss of control over their drug use. According to Yasaei, Rosani, and Saadabadi (2023), in their article “Meperidine,” published on StatPearls, meperidine carries a high risk of misuse and addiction due to its habit-forming properties. The article emphasizes the potential for overdose, particularly when the drug is combined with other CNS depressants or used in higher-than-prescribed doses. 

Physical and Psychological Symptoms of Demerol Addiction

The physical and psychological symptoms of Demerol addiction manifest as the body develops a dependency on the drug, affecting both mental and physical health. These symptoms signal the progressive damage that addiction causes. According to Friesen, Falk, and Bugden (2016), in their study “The Safety of Meperidine Prescribing in Older Adults: A Longitudinal Population-Based Study,” published in BMC Geriatrics, while their focus was on older adults, meperidine led to significant health risks that mirror the physical and psychological symptoms observed in opioid addiction. The following are common signs of Demerol addiction that tend to develop as individuals continue using the drug:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are common physical symptoms that occur when Demerol is used excessively or when the body starts developing a dependence. These signs become more pronounced during withdrawal periods.
• Sweating and chills: These symptoms often appear when the drug is wearing off or during withdrawal. They are uncomfortable and physically draining, affecting the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Respiratory depression: This is a serious risk associated with Demerol addiction, as the drug slows down breathing. In severe cases, it becomes life-threatening, especially when combined with other depressants.
• Mood swings: Demerol addiction frequently causes emotional instability. These unpredictable mood changes strain relationships and lead to social isolation.
• Anxiety and irritability: These psychological symptoms commonly result from both withdrawal and continued misuse of Demerol. Over time, these emotions often become more intense and harder to manage.
• Depression: Prolonged use of Demerol interferes with brain chemistry, leading to depression. Individuals experience feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and despair, which worsen over time.
• Cognitive impairment: Long-term Demerol use impairs memory and concentration. This cognitive decline affects daily functioning and leads to permanent damage with prolonged misuse.

Behavioral Changes Due to Demerol Use

Behavioral changes due to Demerol use are often noticeable and significantly impact an individual’s personal and professional life, such as missing work, neglecting family responsibilities, and avoiding social interactions. As noted by Friesen, Falk, and Bugden (2016), while studying meperidine use in older adults, the behaviors resulting from misuse—such as dependence and the need to secure more of the drug— extend to other populations, showcasing how behavioral changes often accompany opioid misuse. The following behavioral indicators are commonly observed in individuals addicted to Demerol.

• Social withdrawal and isolation: As addiction deepens, individuals withdraw from family, friends, and social activities. They become increasingly focused on obtaining and using Demerol.
• Drug-seeking behavior: Addicted individuals often visit multiple doctors or pharmacies to obtain prescriptions, known as “doctor shopping.” This behavior reflects a desperate need to secure more of the drug.
• Neglect of responsibilities: Addicted individuals begin to neglect personal and professional obligations. Work performance, household duties, and social commitments often suffer as their drug use takes priority.
• Secretive or deceitful behavior: People addicted to Demerol often lie about their drug use. They hide their addiction, cover up signs, or be dishonest about their activities to maintain access to the drug.
• Increased focus on Demerol: As addiction progresses, individuals become increasingly preoccupied with the drug. They prioritize using Demerol over other responsibilities, including health and relationships.
• Disregard for legal consequences: Addicted individuals engage in illegal activities, such as forging prescriptions or buying drugs on the black market. They often overlook the potential legal and social consequences.

What Are Early Signs of Meperidine Misuse?

The early signs of Meperidine misuse are subtle and important to recognize before misuse develops into full-blown addiction, such as increasing dosage without a doctor’s guidance or frequently requesting early refills. Friesen, Falk, and Bugden (2016) highlight in their study that even in controlled settings like older adult populations, misuse can begin with small changes in prescription patterns, eventually leading to more severe addiction symptoms. The following are common early indicators of Meperidine misuse. 

• Increasing dosage: Misuse often starts when individuals increase their dosage beyond what is prescribed. They feel that the original dose is no longer effective and seek stronger effects.
• Frequent refills: Those misusing Demerol request refills more frequently than necessary. This behavior suggests they are taking more of the drug than prescribed, signaling potential misuse.
• Using without a prescription: Taking Demerol without a prescription is a clear sign of misuse. Individuals use leftover medications or acquire them from others, which increases their risk of addiction.
• Mixing with other substances: Combining Demerol with alcohol or other drugs increases the risk of dangerous side effects, including overdose. This behavior is a warning sign of escalating misuse.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing symptoms like sweating, shaking, or restlessness when not using the drug indicates dependence. These symptoms signal the body’s growing reliance on Demerol.
• Preoccupation with obtaining the drug: Individuals begin to focus excessively on how to obtain more Demerol. This obsession interferes with daily life and often leads to risky behavior to secure more of the drug.

What Causes Demerol Addiction?

The causes of Demerol addiction are physical dependencies, such as the body’s need for higher doses to prevent withdrawal symptoms like nausea, muscle pain, and sweating, and psychological triggers, like cravings for euphoria and emotional relief. According to Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC (2010), Demerol binds to opioid receptors in the brain, producing pain relief and euphoria. Over time, as the brain adjusts, larger doses are required to achieve the same effect, creating a cycle of dependence where the body physically relies on the drug to function normally.

Psychological triggers contribute to addiction by causing cravings for the euphoria and emotional relief Demerol provides. Individuals start using the drug not only for physical pain relief but also to cope with emotional or psychological stressors. This psychological dependence drives compulsive drug-seeking behavior, often despite harmful consequences, reinforcing the addiction as individuals seek relief from emotional distress.

Scientific evidence supports this pattern of addiction development. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 21-29% of patients are prescribed opioids like Demerol for chronic pain misuse, and 8-12% develop an opioid use disorder. The rapid onset of Demerol’s effects, similar to other opioids, leads to quick development of tolerance and dependence. Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC (2010) also notes that prolonged use impairs cognitive function, making it harder to quit and further reinforcing the cycle of misuse.

What Are the Risk Factors for Meperidine Addiction?

The risk factors for Meperidine addiction include a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental elements that increase the likelihood of developing dependency. According to Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC (2010), prolonged use of opioids like Meperidine, along with certain personal and medical factors, leads to higher risks of addiction. Below are key factors that contribute to Meperidine addiction.

• Genetic predisposition: Individuals with a family history of substance abuse or addiction are more likely to develop an addiction to Meperidine. Studies show that genetics influence how the brain responds to opioids, making some people more susceptible to addiction.
• Long-term use: Prolonged use of Meperidine increases the risk of addiction, as the body builds tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This tolerance quickly leads to dependence and misuse, especially in patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain.
• Co-occurring mental health issues: People with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD are at higher risk of becoming addicted to Meperidine. The drug’s euphoric effects are used as a coping mechanism to alleviate psychological distress, increasing the likelihood of misuse.
• History of substance abuse: Individuals with a history of alcohol or drug abuse are at a significantly higher risk of becoming addicted to Meperidine. Prior substance use makes it easier for an individual to develop a dependence on opioids.
• High-stress environments: People living in stressful or unstable environments, such as those experiencing financial hardship or trauma, are more likely to misuse Meperidine as a form of emotional escape.
• Lack of social support: A weak support system, or social isolation, increases the risk of addiction, as individuals turn to Meperidine for comfort in the absence of emotional or social connections.

What Are the Effects of Demerol Addiction?

The effects of Demerol addiction are severe, leading to both short-term health consequences such as respiratory depression and nausea, and long-term effects like opioid-induced hyperalgesia and cognitive impairment. According to the study “Opioid-induced hyperalgesia and addiction: clinical implications for the pain practitioner” by Chu, Angst, and Clark (2008), chronic opioid use, including Demerol, leads to tolerance, addiction, and life-threatening complications. Below are the short-term and long-term health effects of Demerol addiction, along with its severity and potential to cause death:

Short-term effects:

• Euphoria and sedation: Demerol produces an initial sense of euphoria and drowsiness, which impair judgment, motor coordination, and cognitive function. These effects often lead to accidents and risky behavior.
• Respiratory depression: Demerol significantly slows down breathing, especially when taken in higher doses or combined with other depressants like alcohol. This effect is fatal if it leads to respiratory failure, a common cause of opioid-related deaths.
• Nausea and vomiting: Many users experience nausea and vomiting, particularly with higher doses. These symptoms become more intense as the body develops tolerance, and users increase their intake.
• Constipation: Opioid use, including Demerol, often causes digestive issues, with constipation being a frequent short-term effect. Over time, this leads to more serious gastrointestinal complications if not addressed.

Long-term effects:

• Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH): Prolonged use of Demerol paradoxically increases sensitivity to pain, known as opioid-induced hyperalgesia. This condition worsens pain management, requiring escalating doses to achieve relief, increasing the risk of overdose.
• Tolerance and dependence: Over time, the body builds tolerance, requiring larger doses of Demerol to achieve the same effects. Chu et al. (2008) found that as tolerance increases, users often escalate their doses by 25-50%, leading to physical dependence and higher addiction risk.
• Cognitive impairment: Long-term Demerol use causes significant cognitive decline, including memory loss, reduced concentration, and slower reaction times. These impairments become permanent with prolonged abuse.
• Psychological effects: Chronic Demerol use often leads to mood swings, depression, and anxiety. Users also experience drug cravings, which fuel compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
• Withdrawal symptoms: When a user stops taking Demerol, they experience severe withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle aches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal distress. These symptoms make it difficult for individuals to quit without medical support.

Severity of addiction:

Demerol addiction is extremely severe and leads to life-threatening consequences, including overdose. Continued opioid use increases the risk of respiratory depression and overdose, which results in death. The rapid escalation of dosage due to tolerance, combined with the effects of opioid-induced hyperalgesia, makes Demerol a high-risk drug for fatal outcomes. Prolonged use without medical supervision significantly increases the chances of overdose and death.

What Are Treatment Options for Demerol Addiction?

The treatment options for Demerol addiction focus on addressing both the physical aspects of addiction, such as managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, and the psychological aspects, including the need to overcome emotional triggers and compulsive drug-seeking behavior. According to the Demerol® (meperidine hydrochloride, USP) Label by Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC (2010), a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates medical detoxification, behavioral therapies, and medication is important for long-term recovery.

1. Medical Detoxification 

Medical detoxification is the supervised process of removing Demerol from the body while managing the physical withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, muscle pain, and insomnia.

• The process: Involves gradually tapering the drug or using medications to help control withdrawal symptoms. The medical team monitors the patient to prevent complications like dehydration, seizures, and other physical reactions.
• Effectiveness: Medical detox is effective in managing the physical dependency that develops with Demerol addiction. Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC (2010) notes that while detox helps control immediate physical withdrawal symptoms, it must be combined with further therapy to prevent relapse. Detox alone relieves up to 50% of withdrawal symptoms, but without addressing the psychological dependence, the risk of relapse remains high.

2. Behavioral Therapy and Counseling 

Behavioral therapy and counseling help patients address the psychological aspects of addiction, such as the emotional reliance on the euphoria that Demerol provides and the compulsive need to seek out the drug.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps patients recognize harmful thought patterns that drive drug use and develop coping mechanisms to manage stress and cravings. It focuses on reshaping behavior to avoid relapse.
• Group counseling: In group therapy, individuals share their experiences, providing mutual support and accountability. This social support helps address the emotional triggers that often lead to relapse.
• Family therapy: Family involvement is important in rebuilding trust and creating a supportive environment that reduces the risk of future drug use.
• Effectiveness: Behavioral therapies are highly effective in reducing relapse rates. Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC (2010) suggests that combining behavioral therapy with medical detox significantly improves long-term recovery outcomes. CBT reduces relapse by up to 60%, especially when patients learn to manage both their emotional triggers and cravings for the drug. 

3. Medications for Opioid Addiction 

Medications are used to manage both the physical dependence and psychological cravings associated with Demerol addiction. These medications help patients reduce their reliance on opioids while minimizing withdrawal symptoms.

• Methadone: Methadone is a long-acting opioid that helps control cravings and withdrawal symptoms without causing the intense euphoria of Demerol. It is effective in stabilizing patients as they move away from active drug use.
• Buprenorphine: This partial opioid agonist reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, offering a safer alternative with less risk of abuse. It helps patients manage their physical dependence while preventing relapse.
• Naltrexone: Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of opioids like Demerol, helping prevent relapse by removing the pleasurable sensations associated with the drug. It is particularly useful for addressing the psychological need to use opioids.

What Is Demerol Addiction Withdrawal Like?

Demerol addiction withdrawal involves both physical symptoms, such as nausea, muscle aches, and sweating, and psychological symptoms, like anxiety and irritability, which occur when an individual stops using the drug after prolonged use. Withdrawal symptoms are severe and uncomfortable, making it difficult for individuals to quit without medical assistance.

• Common withdrawal symptoms:

• Sweating and chills: These symptoms are common as the body attempts to adjust to the absence of the drug.
• Nausea and vomiting: Individuals often experience gastrointestinal distress, which is severe and leads to dehydration if not managed properly.
• Muscle aches and cramps: Withdrawal from Demerol causes widespread muscle pain and cramping, which lasts for several days.
• Insomnia: Sleep disturbances are frequent during withdrawal, with individuals finding it difficult to fall or stay asleep.
• Anxiety and irritability: Psychological symptoms, such as intense anxiety and mood swings, are also common during withdrawal, adding to the distress.

• Timeline for withdrawal:
  • Acute symptoms: These typically begin within 12-24 hours after the last dose and last for 5-7 days. Acute symptoms include sweating, nausea, vomiting, and muscle aches.
  • Post-acute symptoms: After the initial withdrawal phase, individuals experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), which last for weeks or months. These include mood swings, cravings, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.
• Importance of supervised medical detox:
  Supervised medical detox is important for managing the severe physical and psychological symptoms associated with Demerol withdrawal. Medical professionals provide medications to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and monitor for any health risks, such as dehydration or seizures, which occur during withdrawal.
• Why Is Withdrawal Management Important to Prevent Relapse?
  Withdrawal is one of the most challenging phases of overcoming Demerol addiction. Without proper management, the intensity of withdrawal symptoms often leads individuals to relapse to avoid the discomfort. A supervised detox program helps manage these symptoms, making it more likely that individuals successfully complete the detox process and continue with further treatment.

How to Prevent Demerol Addiction?

To prevent Demerol addiction, it is important to implement practical measures that reduce the risk of misuse, dependency, and addiction. According to the “CDC Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain — United States, 2016” by Dowell, Haegerich, and Chou (2016), careful monitoring of prescriptions, patient education, and the use of non-opioid alternatives are key strategies in preventing opioid addiction.

• Careful prescription monitoring:
  • Limit the prescription of Demerol to the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to reduce the risk of addiction.
  • Use state prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) to track patient prescriptions and prevent over-prescribing or “doctor shopping.”
  • Regularly review the patient’s opioid use and adjust treatment plans to avoid the development of dependency.
• Patient education:
  • Educate patients on the risks of Demerol addiction, including the importance of taking the medication exactly as prescribed.
  • Discuss the potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms with patients before beginning treatment with opioids.
  • Warn against sharing prescriptions or using Demerol for non-medical reasons, which increases the risk of misuse and addiction.
• Non-opioid alternatives:
  • Explore non-opioid pain relief options such as physical therapy, NSAIDs, or cognitive behavioral therapy to minimize the need for Demerol or other opioids. These alternatives help manage pain without the high risk of addiction.
• Tapering and discontinuation:
  • When discontinuing opioid treatment, gradually taper the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse or addiction. Controlled tapering helps patients safely transition off opioids like Demerol.

How to Prevent and Respond to Demerol Overdose?

To prevent and respond to Demerol overdose, recognizing overdose symptoms and ensuring prompt medical intervention are important steps. According to the “Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit” by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA, 2018), a combination of prevention strategies and emergency responses helps save lives and reduce the risks associated with opioid use.

• Signs of Demerol overdose:
  • Extreme drowsiness: Individuals have difficulty staying awake or remaining conscious.
  • Slowed or shallow breathing: Respiratory depression, one of the most dangerous effects, causes breathing to slow or stop entirely.
  • Cold or clammy skin: The skin turns cold and appears bluish, particularly around the lips and fingernails.
  • Pinpoint pupils: The pupils constrict to a very small size, even in low-light conditions.
  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness: In severe cases, individuals fall unconscious or into a coma if not treated immediately.
• Use of naloxone in overdose situations:
  Naloxone is a life-saving medication that quickly reverses the effects of a Demerol overdose. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain and restoring normal breathing and consciousness within minutes. Naloxone should be administered immediately if an overdose is suspected. According to SAMHSA, individuals at risk of overdose should have access to naloxone, and both patients and their families should be educated on how to use it effectively.
• Immediate medical intervention and long-term care after overdose:
  After administering naloxone, it is important to call 911 for immediate medical attention. The effects of naloxone are temporary, and the overdose symptoms return, necessitating further medical treatment. Long-term care involves addressing the individual’s opioid addiction through rehabilitation programs, counseling, and ongoing medical supervision to prevent future overdose episodes.
• The connection between overdose and relapse risks:
  Relapse following addiction treatment significantly increases the risk of overdose. After a period of abstinence, patients return to using the same doses they previously tolerated, but their reduced tolerance makes them more susceptible to overdose. Prevention strategies, such as continued addiction treatment and monitoring, are important for reducing the risk of fatal overdoses after relapse.

How to Prevent Relapse After Recovering from Demerol Addiction

To prevent relapse, it involves several key strategies that help individuals maintain sobriety and manage triggers. According to the study “Drug Dependence, a Chronic Medical Illness: Implications for Treatment, Insurance, and Outcomes” by McLellan, Lewis, O’Brien, and Kleber (2000), implementing the following relapse prevention techniques significantly lower the risk of returning to drug use:

• Support groups: Regular participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is highly effective in reducing relapse. McLellan et al. (2000) found that individuals who attend support groups are 20% more likely to maintain sobriety than those who do not. These groups provide ongoing peer support and accountability, reinforcing a sense of community important to long-term recovery.
• Aftercare plans: Structured aftercare plans are important for continued recovery. McLellan et al. (2000) found that individuals with a comprehensive aftercare plan, which includes therapy and outpatient care, are 50% less likely to relapse in the first year of recovery compared to those without aftercare.
• Therapeutic interventions: Continuing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other counseling methods helps individuals manage triggers and cravings that lead to relapse. McLellan et al. (2000) found that long-term therapy participants have a 30% reduced risk of relapse because they are better equipped to handle emotional and environmental stressors.
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Medications like buprenorphine and naltrexone help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. McLellan et al. (2000) reported that individuals receiving MAT are 60% more likely to remain drug-free compared to those who only engage in behavioral therapy.
• Building a strong support system: Having a reliable support network of family, friends, and healthcare professionals drastically lowers the risk of relapse. This support system provides emotional guidance and accountability, important for long-term recovery.

Is Demerol More Addictive Than Morphine?

Yes, Demerol (meperidine) is considered to have a higher risk of addiction than morphine due to its rapid onset of action and shorter duration of pain relief, which often leads to more frequent dosing. Both Demerol and morphine are classified as Schedule II controlled substances, indicating a high potential for abuse and addiction, but their mechanisms and effects differ in ways that impact their addictive potential.

• Medical perspective: Demerol is less commonly used in modern medicine compared to morphine, largely due to its side effects and higher risk of addiction. Demerol’s fast-acting nature produces euphoria quickly, which leads to more intense cravings and a greater likelihood of misuse. Morphine, while still highly addictive, is typically used for managing severe pain over longer periods and is considered safer in controlled, long-term use.
• Addiction perspective: From an addiction standpoint, Demerol’s rapid onset and short duration encourage frequent use, making it more likely for individuals to misuse it. Morphine has a slower onset and longer duration, which make it less prone to frequent misuse, though it still carries a high risk of addiction with prolonged use.

Statistics on addiction prevalence: According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), opioid addiction in general is a widespread issue, affecting over 2 million Americans. However, specific data for Demerol and morphine addiction alone are less frequently reported. NIDA estimates that around 8-12% of individuals prescribed opioids, including Demerol and morphine, develop an opioid use disorder. Despite Demerol being prescribed less often than morphine, its higher risk of rapid dependency makes it particularly concerning from an addiction standpoint.