Morphine is an opiate pain reliever. It is an active ingredient in many different prescription medications. Morphine comes in many different forms, such as tablets, extended-release tablets or capsules, oral solution, or injectable solution.
The drug is a narcotic and is considered a "controlled substance" in the United States.
Morphine is a narcotic, opiate pain reliever. It binds to opioid receptors throughout the body and produces numerous different effects. These effects include, but are not limited to:
- Pain relief
- Cough suppression
- Drowsiness
- Anxiety relief
- Unusual unpleasant feelings (dysphoria) or unusual pleasant feelings (euphoria)
- Decreased breathing (slow or shallow breathing)
- Certain changes in the circulatory system
- Slowing of the digestive tract
- Release of histamine (which often causes itching)
- Physical dependence.
Morphine has a significant potential for both psychological and physical dependence and abuse. In fact, it is classified as a controlled substance, meaning that there are special rules and regulations for prescribing and obtaining the medication. Because morphine can be a desirable drug of abuse, people often try to buy morphine through illegal means, such as from foreign countries or online sources that do not require a prescription. It is readily available and relatively inexpensive (at least in generic form), making it a popular drug of abuse.
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When and How to Take Morphine
Some general considerations include the following:
- This medication comes in tablet, capsule, liquid, or injection form. The particular directions for each product can vary substantially, so make sure to refer to the information for your specific morphine medication.
- When taking morphine by mouth, it is probably best to take it with food, as it can be upsetting to the stomach.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not increase your dose without your healthcare provider's approval. Do not suddenly stop taking it, especially if you have taken it regularly for more than several weeks (see Morphine Withdrawal).
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The particular morphine product
- The type and dose of other painkillers you have taken
- The type and severity of your pain
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, morphine can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will have problems. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of morphine include, but are not limited to:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- An unusual unpleasant feeling (dysphoria) or an unusual pleasant feeling (euphoria)
- Constipation (see Morphine and Constipation).
(Click Morphine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Morphine?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose with morphine can be very dangerous. If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Morphine Be Stored?
Morphine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children. Because it can be a desirable drug of abuse, make sure to keep it in a safe place.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
Depending on the particular product, this medication is often prescribed "as needed," which means you do not need to take a dose if you do not feel pain. If you forget to take a dose of morphine and notice significant pain, take your missed dose right away. However, make sure to wait the recommended time before the next dose.
Many (but not all) morphine products are available in generic form (see the specific products within eMedTV.com for further information).
