Morphine Flashcards
What is Morphine?
Morphine is a non-synthetic narcotic with a high potential for abuse and is derived from opium. It is used for the treatment of severe pain, especially when other pain-relief medicines are not effective or cannot be used.
Effects
Some effects include euphoria, pain relief, a decrease in hunger, and the inhibition of the cough reflex. Chronic use of morphine results in tolerance and physical/psychological dependence. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Side Effect: Constipation
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Try to apply more fibre into your diet, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, and cereals. Drink several (2-5) glasses of water each day. It may be beneficial to do some gentle exercise. It is likely that you will need to take a laxative to help prevent or treat this condition.
Side Effect: Nausea and Vomiting
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Take morphine with or just after a meal or snack to help feelings of sickness. This side effect should normally wear off after a few (~3) days. Take small, frequent sips of water or other fluids to avoid dehydration.
Side Effect: Fatigue
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Any tiredness or exhaustion should wear off within a week or 2 as your body gets accustomed to the morphine.
Side Effect: Vertigo
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Stop what you are doing and sit or lie down until you feel better. Do not drink alcohol as it will make your condition worse. If the feeling does not go away, do not take any more medicine. Do not drive, ride a bicycle, or use tools or machinery.
Side Effect: Confusion
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Speak to your doctor if you feel confused; your dosage way need to be adjusted.
Side Effect: Headaches
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Rest and drink plenty of fluids. It is best not to drink alcohol while taking morphine as this can make headaches worse. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller. This side effect should usually go away after the 1st week of taking morphine. Talk to your doctor if the headaches last longer than a week or are severe.
Side Effect: Itchy Skin and Rash
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Take an antihistamine which you can purchase from a pharmacy. If symptoms do not go away or get worse, speak to your doctor, as you may need to try a different painkiller. Do not take any other medicines to treat the side effects or morphine without speaking to your doctor.
Overdose
Cold and clammy skin, low blood pressure, fatigue, slowed breathing, slow pulse rate, coma, muscle stiffness, and possible death.
Brand Names
MS-Contin, Oramorph SR, MSIR, Roxanol, Kadian, and RMS.
Street Names
Dreamer, Emsel, First Line, God’s Drug, Joy Juice, Hows, Monkey, MS, Mister Blue, Miss Emma, White Lady, White Stuff, Morf, Morpho, and Unkie.
Modes of Administration
Oral solutions, immediate and extended-release tablets and capsules, and injectable solutions. Those dependent on morphine prefer injection because the drug enters the bloodstream more quickly.
