Morphine for pain relief

About morphine

Morphine is a stark opioid smärtstillande that is used to treat severe or long-term (chronic) pain when weaker painkillers are not effective.

It is most commonly used for pain after surgery, serious injury, or in conditions such as cancer-related pain.

Morphine works by acting on the brain and nervous system to reduce how much pain you feel.

What is morphine available as?

Morphine is available in several forms, including:

• Liquid or tablets taken by mouth.

• Slow-release tablets or capsules for long-lasting pain relief.

• Injections, which are often used in hospitals, especially after surgery.

There are different brands of oral morphine, and they are not all absorbed by the body in the same way. Once you start taking one brand, you should continue with the same one unless your doctor advises a change.

Common side effects of morphine include:

• Illamående.

• Kräkningar.

• Shallow breathing.

• Känner dig yr.

• Känner dig sömnig eller dåsig.

• 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.

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

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

• Om du har lever- eller njurproblem.

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

• If you have a heart condition or heart rhythm problems.

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

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

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

• If you have epilepsi.

• Om du har problem med din gallgång.

• Om du har varit förstoppad i mer än en vecka eller har ett inflammatoriskt tarmproblem.

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

• Om du nyligen har haft en allvarlig huvudskada.

• 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.

• Read the leaflet inside the pack before you start. It explains your specific morphine brand and possible side effects.

• Take morphine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You may be told to take it regularly or only when needed.

• Check the label on the pack to confirm your dose.

• Swallow slow-release tablets whole with water. Do not crush or break them.

• Slow-release capsules can usually be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled on soft food (such as yoghurt). Check the pack label for instructions.

• Morphine comes in different strengths, so check each prescription to make sure it is the correct strength.

• You can take morphine with or without food.

• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Ta inte två doser samtidigt to make up for a missed dose.

• Ask your doctor about alcohol. You may be advised not to drink while taking morphine, as alcohol can increase side effects like dizziness and sleepiness.

• Morphine can affect driving. Do not drive if your reactions are slowed or you feel drowsy.

• If you do drive, carry proof that morphine has been prescribed for you (such as the patient leaflet or prescription slip).

• Tell healthcare professionals (including dentists) that you are taking morphine before any treatment or surgery.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking any other medicines. Some medicines can increase morphine’s side effects when taken together.

• If travelling abroad, carry a letter from your doctor, as morphine is a controlled medicine and may be restricted in some countries.

• Only take morphine for as long as prescribed. Taking it for longer can lead to dependence.

• Stopping morphine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness or irritability. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.

• 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 morphine to work?

Morphine in tablet and liquid form usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes. The effects of morphine usually last around 4-6 hours, with slow-releasing morphine lasting longer.

Is it safe to take morphine during pregnancy?

Morphine is not usually recommended during pregnancy. Long-term or high-dose use can affect the baby and may cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, always speak to your doctor or midwife before taking morphine.

Is morphine addictive?

Yes, morphine can be addictive if used for long periods of time or at high doses. Your body can become dependent on it, meaning you may experience withdrawal symptoms if it is stopped suddenly.

Why is morphine used at the end of life?

Morphine is used at the end of life to relieve severe pain and breathlessness. It helps improve comfort and quality of life by reducing pain, easing distress, and helping patients feel more relaxed.