What is the average half-life of Merperidine?

What is the average half-life of Merperidine?

• A. 1.5 hours
• B. 3.5 hours
• C. 6 hours
• D. 12 hours

Answer: (B)

The average half-life of Meperidine, also known as Demerol, is around 3 to 4 hours in adults. This pharmacokinetic property is significant as it affects dosing schedules and the duration of analgesic effect. Meperidine is often used for acute pain management, and understanding its half-life helps in assessing the timing of subsequent doses to maintain effective pain control while minimizing the risk of accumulation and potential toxicity, especially in patients with compromised renal function where clearance may be slower. The provided answer aligns with established pharmacological data regarding Meperidine's half-life, making it the most accurate choice for this question.

The average half-life of Meperidine, also known as Demerol, is around 3 to 4 hours in adults. This pharmacokinetic property is significant as it affects dosing schedules and the duration of analgesic effect. Meperidine is often used for acute pain management, and understanding its half-life helps in assessing the timing of subsequent doses to maintain effective pain control while minimizing the risk of accumulation and potential toxicity, especially in patients with compromised renal function where clearance may be slower.

The provided answer aligns with established pharmacological data regarding Meperidine's half-life, making it the most accurate choice for this question.