Diamorphine for pain relief

About diamorphine

Diamorphine is a stark opioid smärtstillande used in particular to treat pain after a surgical operation and pain caused by cancer.

It may also be used following a hjärtattack, or for breathlessness caused by fluid in the lungs. It works on your nervous system and brain to reduce the amount of pain you feel.

Diamorphine is available as:

• An injection.

• Nasal spray.

• Tablets.

Diamorphine is usually given by injection. Tablets are rarely prescribed because other strong opioids, such as morphine, are absorbed better when taken by mouth.

For children with severe pain, diamorphine may be given as a nasal spray in hospital emergencies. This is quicker and less distressing than an injection.

Common side effects of diamorphine are:

• Feeling drowsy or sleepy.

• Känner dig yr.

• Illamående.

• Kräkningar.

• Förstoppning.

• Torr mun.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

De oönskade effekterna förbättras ofta när din kropp anpassar sig till den nya medicinen, men prata med din läkare eller apotekare om några biverkningar fortsätter eller blir besvärliga.

Om du upplever några andra symtom som du tror kan bero på denna medicin, tala med din läkare eller apotekare.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before taking diamorphine it is important that your doctor knows:

• Om du är gravid, försöker bli gravid eller ammar.

• Om du har hjärt-, lever- eller njurproblem.

• Om du har prostataproblem eller några svårigheter med att kissa.

• If you have any breathing problems, such as asthma or kroniskt obstruktiv lungsjukdom (KOL).

• If you have been told you have lågt blodtryck (hypotoni).

• Om du har några problem med din sköldkörtel eller dina binjurar.

• If you have epilepsi.

• Om du har problem med din gallgång.

• If you have severe diarrhoea, or have been constipated for more than a week, or have an inflammatory bowel problem.

• If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

• Om du nyligen har haft en allvarlig huvudskada.

• If you have ever had a mental health problem called psykos.

• Om du någonsin har varit beroende av droger eller alkohol.

• Om du någonsin har haft en allergisk reaktion mot en medicin.

• Om du tar några andra läkemedel. Detta inkluderar alla läkemedel du tar som finns att köpa utan recept, samt växtbaserade och komplementära läkemedel.

• Diamorphine is usually given as an injection into a muscle or directly into a vein. A doctor or nurse will give the injection, and it may be repeated every four hours to control pain.

• Diamorphine can also be given as an injection just under the skin, often using a syringe driver.

• A syringe driver is a small device that delivers controlled doses through a needle that stays in place. This allows pain relief to be given when needed, without repeated injections. The device limits how much diamorphine can be given over 24 hours.

• In hospital, children with severe pain may be given diamorphine as a nasal spray. This provides fast pain relief and is often used in emergencies. The dose depends on the child’s weight.

• Read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicine. It explains how diamorphine works and lists possible side effects.

• Ask your doctor about alcohol. You may be advised not to drink alcohol while taking diamorphine, as it can increase side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.

• Driving may be affected. Diamorphine can slow your reactions and make driving unsafe. It is illegal to drive if your ability is impaired. If you do drive, carry proof that the medicine has been prescribed for you.

• If you are travelling abroad and need to take diamorphine with you, carry a letter from your doctor. Diamorphine is a controlled drug and is subject to legal restrictions in many countries.

• Check other medicines first. Some over-the-counter medicines can increase side effects when taken with diamorphine. Ask a pharmacist before taking any new medicine.

• Tell healthcare professionals that you are taking diamorphine before having any other treatment.

• Diamorphine is used for short periods only. Long-term use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness or irritability. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.

• Förvara alla läkemedel utom räckhåll och synhåll för barn.

• Förvara på en sval, torr plats, borta från direkt värme och ljus.

How long does it take for diamorphine to work?

Diamorphine usually starts to work in 15-20 minutes when injected into a muscle, such as your thigh or bottom, and lasts for 2-4 hours.

Is it safe to have diamorphine during pregnancy?

Diamorphine is usually only used early in pregnancy. Using it for a long time can cause the baby to become dependent and have withdrawal symptoms after birth. If taken close to delivery, it can also affect the baby’s breathing

What's the difference between diamorphine and morphine?

Diamorphine is a stronger and faster-acting form of morphine. Once in the body, diamorphine is converted into morphine, but it reaches the brain more quickly, providing faster pain relief.

Is diamorphine addictive?

Yes, diamorphine can be addictive, especially with regular or long-term use. It can cause dependence, meaning you may experience withdrawal symptoms if it is stopped suddenly.