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Pethidine is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. Pethidine is in a class of medications called narcotic analgesics, a group of pain medications similar to morphine. It works by changing the way the body senses pain.
Pethidine comes as a tablet and a syrup (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food every 3-4 hours as needed for pain. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Pethidine exactly as directed. Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. People who are dependent on Pethidine or who want to abuse the medication may consider crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting it. Pethidine may cause serious side effects or death if it is taken in these ways. If you are taking Pethidine syrup, mix your dose with half a glass of water and swallow the mixture. Swallowing undiluted Pethidine syrup may numb the mouth. Your doctor will probably adjust your dose of Pethidine during your treatment. Be sure to tell your doctor about any pain and side effects you experience while taking this medication. This will help your doctor find the dose that is best for you. Pethidine can be habit forming. Do not take a larger dose, or take it more often or for a longer period of time than you were told by your doctor. If you have taken Pethidine for longer than a few weeks, do not stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually. If you suddenly stop taking Pethidine, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms may include: restlessness, watery eyes, stuffy nose, yawning, sweating, chills, muscle pain, irritability, nervousness, stomach pain, upset stomach, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fast breathing, fast heartbeat, and back pain. |