The morphine is used in the treatment of pain of moderate to severe entities.Fast-acting formulations are usually used to treat pain when needed, while long-release formulations are used in chronic pain therapy.In the presence of surgery, however, it is used to treat short-term pain only if you are already taking it before operations.
What is Morphine?
It is a narcotic . Its precise mechanism of functioning is unknown, however it is known to interact with specific receptors in the brain (the µ receptors of opioids) and it has been proven that it hinders certain neurons that participate in the perception of pain. It also minimizes breathing by decreasing the capacity of the brain centers that monitor it with increases in carbon dioxide concentration and electrical stimulation.
How is Morphine taken?
Morphine can be taken orally , in the form of suppositories , through injections directly into the vein, subcutaneous, intrathecal or epidural.
Side effects of morphine
The Morphine can curb your breath or even block it.
Among its other possible side effects we also find:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- constipation
- stomach pain
- nausea
- He retched
- headache
- fatigue
- anxiety
- slight itching
It is essential to notify the doctor immediately if the use of morphine causes:
- slow heart rate
- sighing
- weak or shallow breathing
- chest pain
- fast or heavy heart beat
- extreme sleepiness
- feeling faint
Warnings on the use of Morphine
Morphine should not be administered in the presence of asthma or severe respiratory disorders , gastrointestinal blockages or paralytic ileus .
It is also necessary to strictly adhere to the doctor’s indications regarding the intake: even at regular doses the medicine can be addictive. It can also overdose and seriously endanger the health of those who use it, for example if taken together with alcohol or other drugs.
Before starting a morphine treatment it is important to tell your doctor:
- of possible allergies to the active substance, its excipients, other medicinal or any food;
- medicines, phytotherapy and supplements taken, specifically MAO inhibitors (even if the intake was stopped within 14 days before), sleeping medicines, other narcotics, muscle relaxants or drugs for anxiety, depression or convulsions;
- if you suffer (or have suffered) from severe asthma, serious respiratory ailments, gastrointestinal blockages, paralytic ileus, lung or respiratory disorders, head injuries, convulsions, brain tumors, drug abuse, alcoholism, psychiatric conditions, urination disorders, liver or kidney disease, gallbladder or pancreas disorders, thyroid problems;
- if you are pregnant or breastfeeding .
