A comparison of certain actions of demerol and methadone.

Demerol and methadone have advantages over morphine. Demerol requires a higher dosage than methadone, but produces less respiratory depression. Therefore, it can be used more freely in cases where respiratory depression is contraindicated. Demerol does not depress the cough reflex, and methadone is preferred for this purpose. Both drugs have a sufficient tendency to produce addiction that the usual narcotic restrictions should be observed.