MS Contin

MS Contin is a type of opioid narcotic licensed for relieving moderate to severe pain. This prescription medication comes in the form of an extended-release tablet, which is specifically designed to release morphine gradually over time. As a result, you can take this medication two or three times a day. Common side effects seen with MS Contin include constipation, drowsiness, and nausea.

 

What Is MS Contin?

MS Contin® (morphine sulfate ER) is a prescription medication approved to treat moderate to severe pain. It should only be used when continuous, around-the-clock use of strong painkillers is necessary for an extended period of time. It is not approved for short-term or "as needed" (not around-the-clock) use.
 
(Click MS Contin Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes MS Contin?

MS Contin is made by Purdue Pharma, L.P.
 

How Does It Work?

MS Contin tablets are specially designed to release morphine gradually over an extended period of time. As a result, instead of taking morphine many times a day, you can take MS Contin just two or three times a day.
 
Morphine is an opioid narcotic medication. It binds to opioid receptors throughout the body and produces several different effects. These effects include (but are not limited to):
 
  • Pain relief
  • Cough suppression
  • Drowsiness
  • 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.
     
(MS Contin Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;