Skip to medicine information
Protein Simülasyonları ve 3D Modelleme Medicine information · English

Morphine

What this morphine profile covers

Morphine is an opioid pain medicine. This profile concerns immediate-release oral morphine sulfate tablets. It does not describe injections, concentrated oral liquids or extended-release products as interchangeable alternatives. The cited US tablet label covers acute pain in adults and selected paediatric patients who meet its restrictions, and chronic pain in adults, when pain is severe enough to require an opioid and other options are inadequate. Local product approvals and eligibility can differ.

Important risks before and during treatment

Morphine can cause addiction, physical dependence, misuse, overdose and life-threatening breathing suppression. A prescription does not eliminate those risks. Serious breathing problems are especially important when treatment changes or another sedating medicine is added. People with respiratory disease, kidney or liver problems, a history of overdose, or substantial frailty need an individual assessment. This page does not provide a starting dose, opioid conversion or instructions to escalate treatment.

Very slow or shallow breathing, inability to wake normally, collapse, or blue or grey lips requires urgent local emergency help. A clinician or pharmacist can explain access to an opioid reversal medicine and an emergency-response plan. Significant breathing suppression, an obstructed bowel and severe asthma in an unmonitored setting are among the label's contraindications. Morphine should not be stopped abruptly in someone who is physically dependent; the treating team should manage any change.

Which combinations need checking?

Benzodiazepines, sleeping medicines, gabapentin or pregabalin, antipsychotics, muscle relaxants and other opioids can add to morphine's effects on alertness, blood pressure and breathing. Alcohol can make the combination more dangerous. A clinician should assess whether a combination is necessary and what observation is appropriate. Do not add non-prescribed sedatives or assume an over-the-counter product is automatically compatible.

The label also warns about serotonin syndrome with serotonergic medicines such as certain antidepressants, tramadol and triptans. A monoamine oxidase inhibitor requires separate checking because the tablet label contraindicates concomitant use and specifies a washout interval. Fever with agitation, sweating, tremor or muscle stiffness needs urgent assessment. Anticholinergic medicines can add urinary retention and severe constipation, while opioids may reduce the response to diuretics. The label specifically identifies verapamil as a P-glycoprotein inhibitor that can increase oral morphine exposure.

Side effects, pregnancy and breastfeeding

Constipation, nausea and sleepiness are frequent adverse effects. Dizziness, vomiting, light-headedness and sweating can also occur. Discuss a bowel-care plan and driving or machinery restrictions with the care team. New severe abdominal swelling, inability to pass urine, or persistent vomiting warrants medical advice rather than an unplanned medicine change.

Extended opioid exposure during pregnancy can cause newborn opioid withdrawal. Morphine can cross the placenta and enter breast milk; the needs of the mother and the risks to the infant must be assessed together. A breastfed infant exposed to morphine should be observed for unusual sleepiness or breathing difficulty. Keep the medicine secured from children and never share it. This original summary is based on the linked official product information and does not replace the full label, an independent clinical review or an individual treatment decision.

Sources