Morphine is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Typically, the quick-acting formulations are used to treat immediate pain. The prolonged-release tablets, on the other hand, are used for the treatment of chronic pain. If surgery is performed to treat pain in the long term, morphine may be consumed prior to undergoing surgery for short term pain relief.
What is Morphine?
Morphine is a narcotic. Its exact mechanism of operation is not yet known. What is known is the fact that it interacts with specific receptors in the brain (the opioid receptors) and it inhibits some neurons involved in pain perception. It also reduces respiration by decreasing the action of the brain centers that control the concentration of carbon dioxide.
How should Morphine be taken?
Morphine can be administered orally in the form of suppositories. It can also be administered as an injection intravenously, subcutaneously, intrathecally or through epidural route.
Side effects associated with Morphine
Morphine can slow down breathing or even block it.
Among the other possible side effects of morphine include the following:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Mild itching
It is important to contact a doctor immediately in the event that morphine triggers:
- Slow heart rate
- Sighing
- Weak or shallow breathing
- Chest pain
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Extreme drowsiness
- Feeling of faintness
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Morphine
Morphine should not be taken in cases of asthma, severe respiratory problems, gastrointestinal blocks or paralytic ileus. It is important to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions on taking morphine. High and prolonged disease can cause dependence. Overdoses may also result and endanger the health of those who use it. Furthermore, side effects of morphine can be aggravated by alcohol and other medications.
Before starting treatment with morphine, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, other medicines or any food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: MAO inhibitors (even if consumption was discontinued 14 days prior), sleeping pills, other narcotics, muscle relaxants, anxiety medications, depression or seizure medications
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from severe asthma, severe breathing problems, gastrointestinal blocks, paralytic ileus, lung problems, head injuries, seizures, brain tumors, drug abuse, alcoholism, psychiatric disorders, urination problems, kidney or liver disease, gallbladder problems, pancreas problems, or thyroid disorders
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
