Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection (Demerol) Shortage: Most Presentations Unavailable Until 2026-2027
Areazine synthesizes this FDA drug-shortage notice directly from FDA's official public data feed. See our methodology for full source attribution and refresh cadence.
Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection is currently in shortage due to manufacturing delays, with most presentations from Hospira unavailable for an extended period.
What this FDA drug-shortage notice tells you, and what most readers miss
This notice was issued by FDA on April 6, 2026 and geographically references United States. Its severity classification of "medium" signals how the issuing agency weighs the risk of harm if no action is taken - "critical" and "high" tier alerts typically carry direct consumer actions, while "medium" and "low" tend toward informational guidance or monitoring advisories. The category it belongs to - Drug Shortages - determines the regulatory framework behind it, which shapes what mitigations (alternative therapies, allocation timelines, manufacturer guidance) are available and which agency holds oversight.
Most readers skim a notice like this, check whether they are personally affected, and move on. The more useful lens is to verify its scope, source, and timestamp, then compare related notices without assuming that one record proves a broader trend.
Areazine pairs this record with the original agency URL so you can check the primary source before acting. Its related labels are drug-shortage, fda, medication, Meperidine-Hydrochloride.
What's in Shortage
Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection, commonly known by the brand name Demerol, is currently listed in a shortage status. This medication is an injection dosage form used within the Analgesia/Addiction therapeutic category. The shortage was initially posted on May 30, 2025, and was most recently updated on February 12, 2026.
Which Manufacturers Are Affected
Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company is the primary manufacturer listed for this shortage. Patients and providers can contact the company at 844-646-4398 for more information.
Currently Available:
- Demerol, Injection, 50 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1181-30)
Currently Unavailable:
- Demerol, Injection, 25 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1176-30): Unavailable due to manufacturing delay. Estimated recovery: June 2026.
- Demerol, Injection, 25 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1362-01): Unavailable. Estimated recovery: December 2027.
- Demerol, Injection, 50 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1178-30): Unavailable due to manufacturing delay. Estimated recovery: June 2026.
- Demerol, Injection, 50 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1418-01): Unavailable. Estimated recovery: December 2027.
- Demerol, Injection, 75 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1179-30): Unavailable due to manufacturing delay. Estimated recovery: December 2027.
- Demerol, Injection, 100 mg/1 mL (NDC 0409-1180-69): Unavailable. Estimated recovery: December 2027.
Why There's a Shortage
The FDA lists the reason for this shortage as "Other." According to manufacturer notes, the unavailability of several presentations is specifically attributed to a manufacturing delay.
What Patients Should Do
If you are currently prescribed Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection, please take the following steps:
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss this shortage with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your treatment plan.
- Speak with a Pharmacist: Your pharmacist can provide information on current stock levels and whether the available 50 mg/1 mL presentation is appropriate for your needs.
- Contact the Manufacturer: For specific questions regarding supply, you may reach Hospira at 844-646-4398.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding medication changes or alternatives.
Source
FDA Drug Shortage Database
Original source: FDA Official Notice ↗
Related Drug Shortages
All Drug Shortages →Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this FDA drug-shortage notice.