Morphine Information

Why is Morphine prescribed?

Morphine is used to treat moderate-to-severe pain. This medication can be administered by several routes (injected, smoked, sniffed, or swallowed); but when injected particularly intravenously, morphine can produce intense euphoria and a general state of health and relaxation. Regular use can result in the rapid development of tolerance to these effects. Profound physical and psychological dependence can also rapidly develop, and withdrawal sickness upon abrupt cessation of heroin use; many of the symptoms resemble those produced by a case of moderately severe flu. Morphine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How should I use Morphine?

Take morphine just as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Take morphine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.
Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much morphine could be very harmful.
To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of morphine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open controlled-release forms of morphine such as Oramorph SR, Kadian, or MS Contin. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release morphine slowly into your system. Breaking them would cause too much drug to be released into your blood at one time.
Use the suppositories rectally as directed by your doctor. If you do not know how to use them, ask you doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for instructions.
Do not stop taking morphine suddenly if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Stopping suddenly could cause withdrawal symptoms and make you feel uncomfortable. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce your dose.
Morphine will cause constipation. Increase the amount of fiber and water (at least six to eight full glasses daily) in your diet to prevent constipation.
Do not share this medication with anyone else.
Store morphine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Discard any opened bottle of morphine solution after 90 days.
What are the potential side effects of Morphine?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking morphine and seek emergency medical attention:

An allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives)
Slow, weak breathing
Seizures
Cold, clammy skin
Severe weakness or dizziness
Unconsciousness
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience:
Constipation
Dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite
Dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness
Muscle twitches
Sweating
Itching
Decreased urination
Decreased sex drive.
Morphine is habit forming. Do not stop taking it suddenly.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Morphine?

Morphine is habit forming and should only be used under close supervision if you have an alcohol or drug addiction.
Before taking Morphine, inform your doctor if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, urinary retention, an enlarged prostate, hypothyroidism, seizures or epilepsy, gallbladder disease, a head injury, or Addison's disease.

You may not be able to take morphine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Morphine may cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms as well as other harmful effects in an unborn baby. Do not take morphine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Morphine may also cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms in a nursing infant. Do not take morphine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are younger than 18 years of age or older than 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from morphine therapy. Use extra caution.

What should I avoid while taking Morphine?

Keep away from alcohol while taking morphine. Alcohol will greatly increase the drowsiness and dizziness caused by morphine and could be dangerous.

Also stay away from sleeping pills, tranquilizers, sedatives, and antihistamines except under the supervision of your doctor. These medications also may cause dangerous sedation.

When driving you must be careful, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Morphine may cause drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What should I do in case of overdosage with Morphine?

If overdose is suspected while taking morphine, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.

Morphine info @ Chamisamesa.net

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