Morphine is a medication used to manage severe pain in adults and children who weigh at least 50 kg, especially when other treatments haven't worked. It works by binding to specific receptors in the brain to help reduce the feeling of pain. You typically take it as a tablet every 4 hours as needed, starting with a dose of 15 to 30 mg, but you should not exceed 30 mg for the initial dose in children. It's important to know that morphine can cause serious breathing problems, especially if you have significant respiratory issues or asthma. Additionally, be cautious if you are taking benzodiazepines, as this combination can increase the risk of dangerous side effects.
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Uses
- acute pain in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 50 kg. chronic pain in adults.
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Dosage
Adults: 15 to 30 mg every 4 hours as needed for pain.
Pediatric patients (50 kg and above): 15 mg every 4 hours as needed for pain.
Do not exceed 30 mg as an initial dose in pediatric patients.
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
constipationnauseasomnolencelightheadednessdizzinesssedationvomitingsweatingrespiratory depression
Serious
addictionoverdoseseizuressevere hypotension
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
- Can cause life-threatening respiratory depression.
- Accidental ingestion can be fatal, especially in children.
- Use with benzodiazepines or CNS depressants increases risk of sedation and respiratory depression.
- Pregnant women may risk neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome.
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Drug interactions
- Benzodiazepinesincreased risk of sedation and respiratory depressionMonitor
- Serotonergic drugsrisk of serotonin syndromeCaution
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitorsrisk of opioid toxicityCaution
- Mixed agonist/antagonist opioidsmay reduce morphine's effectivenessCaution
- Cimetidinemay cause increased respiratory depression.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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