Which drug is the analgesic commonly known by the brand name Demerol?

• A. Levorphanol
• B. Meperidine
• C. Morphine
• D. Oxycodone

Answer: (B)

Brand names for analgesics aren’t always obvious from the generic name. Demerol is the brand name for meperidine, a synthetic opioid used to relieve pain. It works like other opioids by activating mu receptors, but it has notable downsides: its metabolite normeperidine can accumulate and provoke CNS excitation and seizures, especially in older adults or with kidney impairment, and it can interact with MAO inhibitors. Because of these risks, meperidine is used less often today in favor of other opioids with fewer neurotoxic effects. The other drugs listed have different generic names and corresponding brand names, so the one specifically associated with Demerol is meperidine.