Morphine

English

Brand Name

Vermor 10mg Tablet , Morcon Tablet ... show more

Approved Treatment Indication:

Intractable Pain, Dyspnea

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What conditions Morphine is used for
Morphine is used to treat moderate to severe pain, which can occur after surgery, injury, or in chronic conditions like cancer. It helps manage pain by reducing the perception of pain in the brain, providing relief for those experiencing significant discomfort.
How Morphine works in the body
Morphine works by binding to opioid receptors, which are parts of the brain and spinal cord that process pain signals. This action blocks pain signals and changes how the brain perceives pain, effectively reducing the sensation of pain.
The usual dosages and routes of administration of Morphine
The typical starting dose for adults is 10 to 30 mg every 4 hours as needed for pain. It can be taken orally in tablet form or administered through injections. Dosage may be adjusted by a doctor based on individual needs and response.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of Morphine
Common side effects of Morphine include constipation, which is difficulty in bowel movements, nausea, which is feeling sick to the stomach, and drowsiness, which is feeling unusually sleepy. These effects can vary in severity and may require management strategies.
Important safety warnings and contraindications of Morphine
Morphine can cause respiratory depression, which is slowed breathing, especially when combined with alcohol or other sedatives. It is not recommended for people with severe asthma or known allergies to Morphine. It has a high potential for addiction and should be used exactly as prescribed.

Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

WHO Essential Medicine

YES

Known Teratogen

Pharmaceutical Class

Opioid Agonist

Controlled Drug Substance

YES

Summary

What conditions Morphine is used for
Morphine is used to treat moderate to severe pain, which can occur after surgery, injury, or in chronic conditions like cancer. It helps manage pain by reducing the perception of pain in the brain, providing relief for those experiencing significant discomfort.
How Morphine works in the body
Morphine works by binding to opioid receptors, which are parts of the brain and spinal cord that process pain signals. This action blocks pain signals and changes how the brain perceives pain, effectively reducing the sensation of pain.
The usual dosages and routes of administration of Morphine
The typical starting dose for adults is 10 to 30 mg every 4 hours as needed for pain. It can be taken orally in tablet form or administered through injections. Dosage may be adjusted by a doctor based on individual needs and response.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of Morphine
Common side effects of Morphine include constipation, which is difficulty in bowel movements, nausea, which is feeling sick to the stomach, and drowsiness, which is feeling unusually sleepy. These effects can vary in severity and may require management strategies.
Important safety warnings and contraindications of Morphine
Morphine can cause respiratory depression, which is slowed breathing, especially when combined with alcohol or other sedatives. It is not recommended for people with severe asthma or known allergies to Morphine. It has a high potential for addiction and should be used exactly as prescribed.

Indications and Purpose

How does Morphine work?

Morphine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which are parts of the central nervous system. This action blocks pain signals and changes how your brain perceives pain. Think of it like turning down the volume on a radio. Morphine reduces the "volume" of pain signals, providing relief. It is effective for managing moderate to severe pain, but it must be used carefully due to the risk of addiction.

Is Morphine effective?

Yes, Morphine is effective for pain relief. It is primarily used to treat moderate to severe pain. Morphine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which reduces the perception of pain. Clinical studies and patient experiences support its effectiveness in managing pain. However, its use should be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider due to the risk of addiction and other side effects.

What is Morphine?

Morphine is a medication in the opioid class used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which reduces the perception of pain. Morphine is primarily used for pain relief after surgery or injury, but it can also be used for chronic pain management. It is often used in combination with other therapies to provide effective pain control.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Morphine?

Morphine is typically used for short-term treatment of acute pain, such as after surgery or injury. The duration of use depends on your specific condition and response to treatment. For chronic pain, Morphine may be used long-term under close medical supervision. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of Morphine use. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider.

How do I dispose of Morphine?

Dispose of unused Morphine through a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. This ensures safe disposal and prevents harm to people or the environment. If a take-back program is unavailable, mix Morphine with an undesirable substance like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away in the trash. Do not flush Morphine down the toilet unless instructed.

How do I take Morphine?

Take Morphine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it. You can take Morphine with or without food, but taking it with food may help prevent stomach upset. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses. Avoid alcohol while taking Morphine, as it can increase side effects.

How long does it take for Morphine to start working?

Morphine starts working quickly, usually within 30 minutes after taking it. The full therapeutic effect can be felt within an hour. Factors like your metabolism, age, and overall health can affect how quickly Morphine works. Always take Morphine exactly as prescribed for the best results. If you don't feel relief from your pain, talk with your doctor. They may adjust your dose or explore other pain management options.

How should I store Morphine?

Store Morphine at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Do not store Morphine in the bathroom, where humidity can affect its effectiveness. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Regularly check the expiration date and properly dispose of any unused or expired Morphine.

What is the usual dose of Morphine?

The usual starting dose of Morphine for adults is 10 to 30 mg every 4 hours as needed for pain. The frequency and dose may be adjusted by your doctor based on your pain level and response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose varies, so follow your doctor's instructions carefully. For elderly patients or those with kidney problems, dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.

Warnings and Precautions

Can I take Morphine with other prescription drugs?

Morphine has several concerning drug interactions. Combining it with other central nervous system depressants, like benzodiazepines or alcohol, can increase the risk of respiratory depression, which is slowed breathing. This can be life-threatening. Morphine can also interact with certain antidepressants, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially dangerous condition. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid harmful interactions.

Can Morphine be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Morphine can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. It can cause drowsiness or breathing problems in the baby. The effects on milk supply are not well-documented. If you need Morphine while breastfeeding, talk with your doctor. They may suggest monitoring the baby for side effects or exploring alternative pain management options. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Can Morphine be taken safely while pregnant?

Morphine use during pregnancy is generally not recommended unless the benefits outweigh the risks. It can cross the placenta and may affect the developing baby, potentially leading to withdrawal symptoms after birth. Limited human studies make it difficult to provide definitive safety advice. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss pain management options with your doctor to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

Does Morphine have adverse effects?

Yes, Morphine can have adverse effects, which are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects include constipation, nausea, and drowsiness. Serious side effects can include respiratory depression, which is slowed breathing, and low blood pressure. If you experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing or extreme drowsiness, seek medical attention immediately. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking Morphine.

Does Morphine have any safety warnings?

Yes, Morphine has important safety warnings. It can cause respiratory depression, which is slowed breathing, especially at high doses or when combined with other sedatives. This can be life-threatening. Morphine can also lead to addiction, misuse, and overdose. It's crucial to take it exactly as prescribed. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while on Morphine. If you experience difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, or confusion, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Morphine?

No, it's best to avoid alcohol while taking Morphine. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Morphine, leading to dangerous side effects like respiratory depression, which is slowed breathing. This combination can also increase the risk of overdose. If you choose to drink, limit your alcohol intake and be aware of warning signs like extreme drowsiness or difficulty breathing. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Morphine?

Exercise is generally safe while taking Morphine, but be cautious. Morphine can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which may affect your ability to exercise safely. Avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports until you know how Morphine affects you. Stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded during exercise, stop and rest. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while on Morphine.

Is it safe to stop Morphine?

Stopping Morphine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, which are physical and mental effects that occur when you stop taking a drug your body is used to. These symptoms can include anxiety, sweating, nausea, and muscle aches. It's important to talk to your doctor before stopping Morphine. They may suggest gradually reducing your dose to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely.

Is Morphine addictive?

Yes, Morphine is addictive and has a high potential for abuse. It can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Signs of dependence include cravings, taking more than prescribed, and withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug. To prevent addiction, use Morphine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider. If you have concerns about addiction, discuss them with your doctor.

Is Morphine safe for the elderly?

Morphine can be used in the elderly, but with caution. Older adults are more vulnerable to side effects like dizziness, confusion, and constipation. These effects can increase the risk of falls and other complications. Lower doses may be necessary, and close monitoring is important. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the safest and most effective pain management plan for elderly patients.

What are the most common side effects of Morphine?

Common side effects of Morphine include constipation, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and dizziness. These side effects can vary in frequency and severity. Constipation is particularly common and may require a laxative. If you experience new symptoms after starting Morphine, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Always talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Morphine.

Who should avoid taking Morphine?

Morphine should not be used if you have severe asthma, which is a condition that affects your breathing, or a known allergy to Morphine. It is also contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, which is a blockage in the digestive tract. Use caution if you have a history of substance abuse or mental health disorders. Always consult your doctor to determine if Morphine is safe for you.