US Brand Name (Generic Name): {MS Contin}, {Kadian}, {Avinza}, {Roxanol}, and others ({Morphine})

Pharmacologic category:

{Opioid analgesics}. Other medications in this category include: {Oxycodone} ({OxyContin}, {Percocet}), {Hydrocodone} ({Vicodin}, {Norco}), {Fentanyl} ({Duragesic}, {Actiq}), {Tramadol} ({Ultram}), {Hydromorphone} ({Dilaudid}), {Methadone} ({Dolophine})

Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration

{Chronic Pain}: 15-30 mg oral immediate-release every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Cancer Pain}: 15-30 mg oral immediate-release every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Postoperative Pain}: 10 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Post-traumatic Pain}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Neuropathic Pain}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Pain from Kidney Stones}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Pain from Burns and Injuries}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Pain from Bone Fractures}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Pain from Arthritis}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed
{Pain associated with Sickle Cell Disease}: 10-30 mg oral every 4 hours, adjust as needed

Dosage Forms and strengths:

Oral tablets (immediate-release): 15 mg, 30 mg Oral tablets (extended-release): 15 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg Oral capsules (extended-release): 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 45 mg, 60 mg, 75 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg Oral solution: 10 mg/5 mL, 20 mg/mL Rectal suppositories: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg Injectable solution: 1 mg/mL, 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 5 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, 15 mg/mL, 25 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL

Administration Instructions:

For oral tablets, swallow the tablet whole with water. For extended-release capsules, swallow the capsule whole with water. For oral solution, use the provided dosing cup or syringe to measure the correct dose. Rectal suppositories should be inserted into the rectum as directed. Injectable solutions should be administered by a healthcare professional.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:

{Dizziness} (5-12%): Lightheadedness or feeling faint, increasing the risk of falls.
{Constipation} (11-15%): Difficulty in passing stool, may require a laxative.
{Nausea} (10-29%): Sensation of unease in the stomach, may lead to {vomiting}.
{Vomiting} (5-17%): Involuntary expulsion of stomach contents.
{Pruritus} (1-10%): Itching of the skin.
{Dry mouth} (1-10%): A lack of saliva in the mouth, causing discomfort.
{Respiratory depression} (<1%): Slow, shallow breathing, can be life-threatening; requires immediate medical attention.

Contraindications to taking the medication:

Hypersensitivity to morphine or any of its components
{Respiratory depression} or severe asthma
{Paralytic ileus} (intestinal blockage)
Severe liver or kidney impairment
{Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)} use within the last 14 days

Drug to Drug Interactions:

{Alprazolam} ({Xanax}): May increase the risk of respiratory depression and sedation
{Amitriptyline} ({Elavil}): May increase the risk of respiratory depression and sedation
{Diazepam} ({Valium}): May increase the risk of respiratory depression and sedation
{Gabapentin} ({Neurontin}): May increase the risk of respiratory depression and sedation
{Ondansetron} ({Zofran}): May reduce the effectiveness of morphine
{Warfarin} ({Coumadin}): May increase the risk of bleeding

Is this medication safe to take when pregnant?

Morphine is categorized as a Pregnancy Category C drug, which means it may cause harm to the unborn baby. Pregnant women should use morphine only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks. Consult your healthcare provider for advice.

Is this medication safe to take when breastfeeding?

Morphine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Consult your healthcare provider before using morphine if you are breastfeeding.

Estimate price of a 30-day supply of the medication assuming the patient doesn’t have insurance and is utilizing a GoodRx coupon:

The cost of a 30-day supply of morphine varies depending on the dosage form, strength, and pharmacy. Using a GoodRx coupon, the approximate price for a 30-day supply of morphine immediate-release 15 mg tablets is around $15-$40. Prices may vary; consult your local pharmacy or the GoodRx website for up-to-date pricing information.

Legal Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.