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DEMEROL vs METHADONE HYDROCHLORIDE

Independent side-by-side comparison.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 19, 2026·How we rate

Possible drug interaction. DEMEROL and METHADONE HYDROCHLORIDE are different prescription medicines. Combining or switching between them can cause interactions — talk to a pharmacist or prescriber before making changes. This page is not medical advice.

Rating

60/100
72/100

Pharmacy pays

$0.16 /mL
$0.18 /mL

Type

RX
RX

Active ingredient

MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
METHADONE HYDROCHLORIDE

Manufacturer

Dosage forms

Injectable
Injectable, Solution, Tablet

Drug class

Opioid Agonist
Opioid Agonist

Half-life

about 8 to 59 hours (terminal/elimination half-life; a very wide range)

Treats

Pain
Opioid-Related Disorders, Intractable Pain

Frequently asked questions

Which is better-rated, Demerol or Methadone Hydrochloride?

By our independent rating, Methadone Hydrochloride scores higher — 3.6 vs 3.0 out of 5 for Demerol. Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data.

Which is cheaper, Demerol or Methadone Hydrochloride?

Demerol costs pharmacies less to acquire — about $0.16 vs $0.18 per ml, per the CMS NADAC survey. That gap is in the pharmacy's cost of goods, not necessarily in what you pay: your price is set afterwards by your insurer and the pharmacy.

What is the difference between Demerol and Methadone Hydrochloride?

Demerol contains Meperidine Hydrochloride, while Methadone Hydrochloride contains Methadone Hydrochloride — they have different active ingredients.

Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.