About morphine sulfate
Extended-release opioid pain medicine
Used for
- Severe, persistent pain requiring around-the-clock opioid treatment
Usual adult dose
Dose is individualized; opioid-tolerant adults commonly take it every 8–12 hours. Swallow tablets whole.
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sleepiness and dizziness
- Slow or difficult breathing
Important warnings
- Can cause fatal breathing suppression, especially when starting or increasing doses.
- Risk of dependence, misuse, and overdose; keep securely stored.
- Avoid alcohol and do not crush, chew, or dissolve tablets.
- Overdose can be reversed with naloxone; emergency treatment is essential.
Pregnancy
Use may cause newborn opioid withdrawal if taken during pregnancy; prolonged use can also harm the newborn.
Breastfeeding
Morphine enters breast milk and may cause infant sleepiness or breathing problems; use requires careful clinical assessment.
Interactions
- Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives can dangerously slow breathing.
- Some medicines alter morphine effects, including certain antibiotics and seizure medicines.
- Other opioids or medicines causing drowsiness increase overdose risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.