Morphine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Opioid Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
YES
Summary
Indications and Purpose
How does Morphine work?
Morphine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception of pain and emotional response to it. This action helps reduce the sensation of pain and provides relief.
Is Morphine effective?
Morphine is a well-established opioid analgesic used to manage severe pain. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, altering the perception of pain. Clinical studies and extensive use in medical practice support its effectiveness in pain management.
What is Morphine?
Morphine is an opioid analgesic used to manage severe pain when other treatments are inadequate. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, altering the perception of pain. Morphine is effective for both acute and chronic pain management.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Morphine?
Morphine is typically used for as long as severe pain persists and alternative treatments are inadequate. The duration of use should be as short as possible to minimize the risk of addiction and other side effects. Always follow your doctor's guidance on how long to use Morphine.
How do I dispose of Morphine?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Morphine?
Morphine can be taken with or without food. If you experience nausea, taking it with food may help. Avoid alcohol and consult your doctor about any specific dietary restrictions while using Morphine.
How long does it take for Morphine to start working?
Morphine typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration. The onset of action may vary based on individual factors and the specific formulation used.
How should I store Morphine?
Store Morphine in a tightly closed container at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and in a location not easily accessible by others. Dispose of unused Morphine properly, preferably through a take-back program.
What is the usual dose of Morphine?
For adults, the usual starting dose of Morphine is 15 mg to 30 mg every 4 hours as needed for pain. For children weighing at least 50 kg, the recommended starting dose is 15 mg every 4 hours as needed. Morphine is not recommended for children under 50 kg with the available tablet strengths.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Morphine with other prescription drugs?
Morphine can interact with benzodiazepines, other CNS depressants, and MAO inhibitors, increasing the risk of severe respiratory depression and sedation. Always inform your doctor of all medications you're taking to avoid dangerous interactions.
Can Morphine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Morphine passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. It's generally not recommended to breastfeed while taking Morphine. Consult your doctor for advice on managing pain while breastfeeding.
Can Morphine be taken safely while pregnant?
Morphine use during pregnancy can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening. It's important to weigh the benefits against the risks and consult your doctor. There is evidence that prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
Does Morphine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects that can occur with medication use. Morphine can cause several adverse effects, including drowsiness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These are common and may affect more than 10% of users. Serious adverse effects, though rare, include difficulty breathing, severe allergic reactions, or confusion, which require immediate medical attention. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to a healthcare provider and not to stop taking morphine without consulting them first.
Does Morphine have any safety warnings?
Morphine comes with several safety warnings. It can cause respiratory depression, which means it can slow or stop breathing, especially in high doses or when combined with other sedatives. Signs to watch for include slow or shallow breathing and extreme drowsiness. Morphine can also lead to addiction, misuse, and overdose, so it's important to take it exactly as prescribed. Symptoms of overdose include difficulty breathing, severe drowsiness, and loss of consciousness. Always inform your healthcare provider of any new symptoms or concerns while taking morphine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Morphine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Morphine is not safe. Alcohol can increase the risk of serious side effects like respiratory depression, sedation, and even death. It can also cause the Morphine to be released too quickly in the body, leading to a potentially fatal overdose.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Morphine?
Morphine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue, which may limit your ability to exercise safely. If you feel these effects, it's best to avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor for advice on managing your symptoms.
Is it safe to stop Morphine?
Morphine is typically used for symptomatic relief of pain, whether chronic or acute. Stopping morphine suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include restlessness, sweating, chills, and irritability. In some cases, abrupt discontinuation can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, which can be dangerous. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with a doctor before stopping morphine. Your doctor may recommend gradually reducing the dose to minimize withdrawal effects. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance when discontinuing this medication.
Is Morphine addictive?
Morphine is addictive and has habit-forming potential. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which can lead to physical dependence. Warning signs of dependence include craving the medicine, using it more frequently than prescribed, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking it. To prevent addiction, use morphine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, avoid increasing the dose without consulting them, and discuss any concerns about dependence with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional can help manage the risk of addiction.
Is Morphine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have increased sensitivity to Morphine, leading to a higher risk of respiratory depression. It's important to start with a lower dose and monitor closely for side effects. Regularly evaluate kidney function, as Morphine is excreted by the kidneys.
What are the most common side effects of Morphine?
A side effect is an unwanted or unexpected reaction to a medicine. Common side effects of morphine include drowsiness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These effects are frequently reported and may affect more than 10% of users. It's important to note that new symptoms can occur when starting any new medicine, and they may not always be related to the medicine itself. Always speak to a healthcare provider before stopping morphine, as they can help determine if the symptoms are related to the medication or another cause.
Who should avoid taking Morphine?
Morphine can cause serious respiratory depression, especially when starting treatment or increasing dosage. It's contraindicated in patients with severe asthma, respiratory depression, or gastrointestinal obstruction. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants to prevent severe side effects.
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