17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Inform patients that the use of DEMEROL Injection, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Instruct patients not to share DEMEROL Injection with others and to take steps to protect DEMEROL Injection from theft or misuse.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, including information that the risk is greatest when DEMEROL Injection or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended dosages [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Hyperalgesia and Allodynia
Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of hyperalgesia, including worsening pain, increased sensitivity to pain, or new pain [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7), Adverse Reactions (6)].
Serotonin Syndrome
Inform patients that opioids could cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome resulting from concomitant administration of serotonergic drugs. Warn patients of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome and to seek medical attention right away if symptoms develop after discharge from the hospital. Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider if they are taking, or plan to take serotonergic medications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8), Drug Interactions (7)].