What is morphine and what is it used for?

Analgesic drugs such as morphine have different spectrums of action and degrees of effectiveness , in addition to covering different levels of pain. 

In this sense, morphine is recognized as a narcotic analgesic with a long history of application over the years.

Therefore, in the following article we will delve into morphine and its main uses as a medical treatment , its possible side effects and contraindications.

What is morphine?

Morphine is considered a highly potent opiate drug, used for its analgesic properties. Its active principle is morphine and it can be present in the form of sulfate or hydrochloride, depending on its presentation.

On the other hand, morphine can be found in the form of tablets and ampoules, with recommended doses in both presentations of 10 mg, although it will depend a lot on the treatment that is being indicated by the medical professional. 

Note: Due to its nature and mechanism of action, morphine is a non- prescription medication . 

What is morphine used for?

The nature of morphine is analgesic, so it is indicated for treatments where pain relief is necessary . We mention below its main uses:

1. Intense, chronic and postoperative pain

In cases of intense and chronic pain, morphine is used to reduce it. Its mechanism of action is on the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the brain , where it modifies the way in which they react and respond to pain . 

To highlight: The use of morphine is considered a safe and effective treatment, for a faster recovery. (1)

2. Cancer pain and pain associated with acute myocardial infarction

Medical studies where morphine treatments have been applied in cancer patients and myocardial infarction patients have obtained beneficial results . 

Note: The treatment is usually oral, and leads to satisfactory relief in pain classified as moderate and intense. (two)

3. Preoperative anxiety 

Preoperative anxiety is a state of restlessness or tension, which usually refers to a patient worried about some disease or its treatment. 

You should know: The use of drugs such as morphine reduces stress and allows a state of sedation to be obtained . (3)

Morphine Side Effects

All medicines have stipulated possible side effects, which can develop during their use as a treatment. We mention those of morphine below:

• Insomnia , nervousness and mood swings.
• Headache, reduced pupils and thought disturbances.
• Stomach pain, dry mouth, dizziness, nausea and cramps.

Important: If side effects occur and do not disappear when stopping treatment, it is important to seek medical attention for information.

Contraindications of morphine

Contraindications are factors that we must take into account when starting a medical treatment, to reduce the risks of developing adverse effects. We mention those of morphine below: 

• Do not indicate if you have had an allergy or hypersensitivity to any component of the drug.
• Do not indicate whether the patient has acute or severe asthma.
• Do not indicate if the patient has a head injury.
• Do not indicate if the patient has liver failure.
• Do not indicate if the patient has intestinal obstruction. 

You should know: It is important to mention the medical history, so that a pertinent and adequate treatment is indicated.

Key Findings

• Morphine is a medication used as a treatment for patients with chronic or severe pain.
• Morphine comes in injectable solution and prolonged-release tablets. 
• Morphine should not be indicated in patients with respiratory depression, asthma, or left ventricular failure. 
• The recommended dose of morphine is 10 mg, although it varies depending on the treatment indicated by the medical professional.