Plasma concentrations of meperidine and normeperidine following continuous intrathecal meperidine in patients with neuropathic cancer pain

Abstract

We conclude that continuous intrathecal administration of meperidine alone, or in combination with clonidine, can provide significant pain relief in patients with poor pain control despite pharmacological treatment. However, accumulation of meperidine and normeperidine resulting in central nervous system toxicity may occur during this treatment.