Meperidine is an opioid analgesic that is commonly used to control shivering in accidental or therapeutic hypothermia. This drug has previously been linked to increased seizure risk. However, a new study finds little published evidence to support this risk. The authors concluded, "While use of meperidine for pain relief has declined, its role as an effective anti-shivering agent should continue to be explored." The study is published in Therapeutic Hypothermia and Temperature Management.
‘Meperidine has previously been linked to increased seizure risk. A review of medical literature suggested few cases of meperidine-associated seizures. In many of the cases, coexisting illnesses, conditions, or other factors were responsible for the increased risk of seizures.’
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The research team reviewed 45 years of medical literature and found relatively few cases of meperidine-associated seizures. In many of the cases, coexisting illnesses, conditions, or other factors could have contributed to or explained the increased risk of seizures.Source-Eurekalert