Removing meperidine from the health-system formulary--frequently asked questions.

Meperidine is FDA-approved for relieving moderate to severe pain and has been widely used since its introduction in the 1930s. However, the drug is no longer considered a first-line analgesic. Many clinicians recommend that meperidine be removed from health-systems or that its use be restricted, due to concerns about adverse reactions, drug interactions, and normeperidine neurotoxicity. In addition, clinical evidence shows that meperidine has no advantage over other opioids for biliary colic or pancreatitis. The formulary status of meperidine has been extensively discussed at University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics. The Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee has been working with hospital staff to assess the impact of either removing meperidine from the formulary, or limiting its use. The Drug Information Service developed this document to help pharmacists respond to prescribers' questions and to alleviate the prescribers' concerns about these changes. Information is provided comparing meperidine with other opioids, including dosage equivalency, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, cost, adverse effects, and drug interactions. Where available, alternatives to meperidine are suggested for various indications.