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Meperidine
Introduced as an analgesic in the 1930s, meperidine produces
effects that are similar, but not identical, to morphine
(shorter duration of action and reduced antitussive and
antidiarrheal actions). Currently it is used for pre-anesthesia
and the relief of moderate to severe pain, particularly in
obstetrics and post-operative situations. Meperidine is
available in tablets, syrups, and injectable forms under generic
and brand name (Demerol®, Mepergan®, etc.) Schedule II
preparations. Several analogues of meperidine have been
clandestinely produced. During the clandestine synthesis of the
analogue MPPP, a neurotoxic by-product (MPTP) was produced. A
number of individuals who consumed the MPPP-MPTP preparation
developed an irreversible Parkinsonian-like syndrome. It was
later found that MPTP destroys the same neurons as those damaged
in the Parkinsonian-like syndrome. It was later found that MPTP
destroys the same neurons as those damaged in Parkinsons
Disease.
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