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Medicine

Morphine – treatment of severe pain

Oral tablet

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

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Overview

Morphine is a strong pain medicine in the opioid group. It is used for severe pain when other pain relief is not enough. Some types are standard tablets, while others are modified-release tablets that release the medicine slowly over time.

Ibrahim's pharmacy advice

I often explain it like this: Morphine tablets are not ordinary pain medicine. They are a strong treatment that can be very important for severe pain, but they must be used with respect. They can cause drowsiness, constipation, and in serious cases slow breathing. If it is a modified-release tablet, it should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Correct use is the most important thing.

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.
  • Tablet treatment is used when medicine by mouth is possible and suitable.

Dosage and Ibrahim's advice

  • The dose of morphine is individual and depends on pain severity, age, kidney and liver function, and other medicines.
  • Always follow the treatment plan carefully and do not take extra doses without advice.
  • If it is a modified-release or extended-release tablet, do not split, crush, or chew it.
  • If you miss a dose, follow the instructions given for your exact morphine product.

Side effects

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

Drug interactions

  • Benzodiazepines, sleeping tablets, alcohol, and other opioids 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 and herbal products.

Important warnings

  • Do not drive or use machines if you feel sleepy or impaired.
  • With long-term use, the body may become used to treatment and dependence can occur, so stopping should be planned.
  • Get urgent help if breathing becomes very slow, the person is very sleepy, or is hard to wake.
  • The risk of side effects may be higher in older adults and in people with lung or kidney disease.

Ramadan and fasting

  • Oral tablets break the fast if taken during the daytime.
  • Talk with your doctor before Ramadan if you want a safe pain treatment plan.
  • When pain is severe or treatment is medically necessary, safe treatment should come first.

Food and drink

  • Morphine can be taken with or without food, but a small meal may sometimes reduce nausea.
  • Avoid alcohol while using morphine.
  • Plenty of fluids and fibre may help with constipation.

Storage

  • Store morphine safely and out of reach of children and others, preferably locked away.
  • Do not share the medicine with anyone else.
  • Do not use it after the expiry date or if the package is damaged.
  • Return unused medicine to the pharmacy.

Sources

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