Unfortunately, opioid drugs (like Demerol) can potentially cause suicidal thoughts in those who become dependent on them. Let us help you find a safe, reliable rehab program for your or your loved one’s recovery from opioid dependence and addiction.
Demerol Use and Depression
Meperidine is the drug found in Demerol. Because meperidine is an opioid, Demerol can potentially cause depression in those who become dependent on it. This is an issue associated both with illicit and licit use of the drug.
According to the National Library of Medicine, those who take Demerol and other drugs like it consistently for a prolonged period of time are likely to become dependent on it. This can happen as quickly as a few weeks after being on the drug, and though many people are weaned off their medication with few problems, sometimes issues like depression and anxiety can become severe during withdrawal.
Suicidal thoughts can occur as a side effect of Demerol withdrawal.
- One of the symptoms of opioid withdrawal is depression, and though it may be temporary, it can be just as severe and debilitating as major depression and other mood disorders.
- As such, people can experience the common side effects of depression if they suddenly stop taking Demerol, including suicidal thoughts. Even if they are weaned off the drug slowly, this can still be a potential issue.
- Drug dependency can change the way the brain works. Therefore, patients and doctors must be very careful of this potential side effect of Demerol and drugs like it.
What Should I Do if I Experience These Effects?
If you are dependent on Demerol and begin experiencing depressive symptoms such as
- Changes in appetite
- Sleep problems
- Feeling sad, anxious, empty, helpless, or guilty often
- Hopelessness
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability
- A diminished interest in activities that used to matter to you
you are probably experiencing depression, which can be a side effect of the drug. Suicidal thoughts could potentially occur, which is why you should seek help immediately.
- Talk to your doctor. It is important that they are aware of the side effects you are experiencing, and they will likely need to treat this issue medically.
- A detox or rehab program can be especially helpful if you were abusing Demerol or taking it in a way other than prescribed. It is likely that your symptoms will be worse if you were taking large amounts of the drug, so make sure you seek the help you need.
- According to the medical journal Biological Psychiatry, patients suffering from drug-induced depression may need to be treated with the same options used to treat those with other mood disorders, namely antidepressants and therapy.
It is extremely important that you reach out for help if you do start to experience depressive symptoms as a result of your Demerol dependence, as these could worsen into suicidal thoughts.
Seek Help Today
Are you abusing Demerol and/or other drugs? Are you suffering from comorbid, depressive symptoms that are putting your wellbeing in danger? Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? for help finding a rehab program that will take your needs into account and allow you to safely recover from your substance use disorder and any other issues.
