logosomalimed
Back to medication list
Medicine

Morphine – treatment of severe pain

Injection

A simple and personal explanation of the medicine for patients and families.

Short and easy to readShort explanations, audio and plain language

Select language:

Overview

Morphine is a strong pain medicine in the opioid group. It is used for severe pain when other pain relief is not enough. As an injection, it is often given by healthcare professionals or according to a carefully planned treatment schedule.

Ibrahim's pharmacy advice

I often explain it like this: Morphine can be very important when pain is severe, but it is also a medicine that must be treated with respect. It can relieve severe pain, but it can also cause drowsiness, constipation, and in serious cases slow breathing. That is why correct use and knowing the warning signs are very important.

Use

  • Morphine is used to treat severe pain when a strong pain medicine is needed.
  • It belongs to the opioid group and reduces the body's experience of pain.
  • Injection is often used for acute or severe pain, or when oral medicine is not suitable.

Dosage and Ibrahim's advice

  • The dose of morphine is individual and depends on pain severity, age, weight, kidney and liver function, and other medicines.
  • Morphine injection may be given into a vein, a muscle, or under the skin, depending on medical assessment.
  • Always follow the treatment plan carefully and do not take extra doses without advice.
  • Older adults and people with breathing problems or reduced kidney function may need extra caution.

Side effects

  • Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
  • Some people may also notice itching or confusion, especially when starting treatment or changing the dose.
  • The most important serious side effect is slow or reduced breathing.

Drug interactions

  • Benzodiazepines, sleeping tablets, alcohol, and other sedating medicines can increase the risk of severe drowsiness and breathing problems.
  • Other medicines that affect the central nervous system may also increase the effects of morphine.
  • Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you use, including over-the-counter products.

Important warnings

  • Get urgent help if breathing becomes very slow, the person is very sleepy, lips turn blue, or the person is hard to wake.
  • Morphine can affect alertness. Do not drive or use machines if you feel sleepy or impaired.
  • With long-term use, the body may become used to treatment, so stopping should be planned and not done suddenly if the medicine has been used regularly.
  • Constipation is common with opioid treatment and may need prevention or treatment.

Ramadan and fasting

  • Religious views on injections during fasting may differ, so speak with an imam if you want faith-based guidance.
  • When pain is severe or treatment is medically necessary, safe treatment should come first.
  • Talk with your doctor before Ramadan if you plan to fast during treatment.

Food and drink

  • Avoid alcohol while using morphine because it can increase drowsiness and the risk of breathing problems.
  • Plenty of fluids and fibre may help with constipation.
  • If nausea occurs, smaller meals may sometimes be easier.

Storage

  • If stored at home, keep morphine out of reach of children and others, preferably locked away.
  • Store it according to the package instructions.
  • Do not use ampoules or equipment that are damaged or expired.
  • Dispose of leftovers and used equipment according to pharmacy or local guidance.

Sources

This text is written in a personal and simple style, but the medical information is based on official sources.