Meperidine is described as having what level of dependency?

Meperidine is described as having what level of dependency?

• A. High dependency
• B. Moderate dependency
• C. Low dependency
• D. Unknown dependency

Answer: (A)

Dependency potential reflects how likely a drug is to cause physical dependence and withdrawal when it’s stopped after regular use. Meperidine, like other potent opioids, strongly activates mu receptors, which leads to tolerance and physical dependence with continued use. That combination means a high risk of dependence, especially with longer treatment or higher doses, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if the drug is abruptly discontinued. The safety concern of its active metabolite normeperidine adds toxicity risk, particularly in older adults or with renal impairment, but it doesn’t lessen the drug’s dependence potential. So, the best description is high dependency. A moderate or low level wouldn’t align with how opioids typically produce dependence, and unknown isn’t appropriate given the established risk.

Dependency potential reflects how likely a drug is to cause physical dependence and withdrawal when it’s stopped after regular use. Meperidine, like other potent opioids, strongly activates mu receptors, which leads to tolerance and physical dependence with continued use. That combination means a high risk of dependence, especially with longer treatment or higher doses, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if the drug is abruptly discontinued. The safety concern of its active metabolite normeperidine adds toxicity risk, particularly in older adults or with renal impairment, but it doesn’t lessen the drug’s dependence potential. So, the best description is high dependency. A moderate or low level wouldn’t align with how opioids typically produce dependence, and unknown isn’t appropriate given the established risk.