Demerol is a narcotic analgesic with effects similar to morphine; the most prominent of these involve the central nervous system and organs composed of smooth muscle. When prescribed it is used for relief of moderate to severe pain. Demerol is manufactured in tablet and syrup form. Demerol tablets are white, round and convex (the 50mg tablet is scored). The effects of Demerol are felt 10-15 minutes after ingestion and last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. Demerol is addictive. When the user repeatedly uses Demerol they build a tolerance to the drug and this creates both a mental and physical addiction.

The symptoms of a Demerol overdose include:

• bluish discoloration of the skin
• cold and clammy skin
• coma or extreme sleepiness
• limp
• weak muscles
• low blood pressure
• slow heartbeat
• troubled or slowed breathing