Full Question:
Can you tell me why Doctors do not want to use Demerol to get rid of migraines? I used to go to Urgent Care for a shot when it is really bad. My Doctor had instructions on file. Now I give myself shots at home, Dilaudid. This works, but not as good as Demerol. Nancy.

Answer:

Dear Nancy;

Most physicians are afraid of opiates. Having said that, I don't consider them first-choice agents for migraines or headaches. In fact I have 13-14 agents that we use in the clinic IV for treating refractory, unstoppable headaches and none of them are opiates! Demerol is actually especially fraught with causing rebound headaches so it is not a particularly good choice. Plus, it can affect the heart.

Good luck,
John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert

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