Morphine injection: What you need to know about this drug for severe pain

The name "morphine" may make you feel a little scared. But in fact, morphine is a very valuable drug for controlling severe pain when used correctly under the supervision of a doctor. This medicine is very helpful in providing relief in cases such as pain after major surgery, severe pain experienced by cancer patients. So today, let's learn exactly about this morphine injection, its function, things to be careful about while using it, and its side effects .

What is this morphine?

Simply put, morphine is a very strong painkiller . Doctors prescribe it when you have severe pain that cannot be controlled by other painkillers , or when you cannot tolerate the medication.

This belongs to a class of drugs called `(Opioids)`. What this does is block the pain signals that go to your brain. Think of it as closing the path that carries the pain message. Then you feel less pain.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before giving you morphine, it is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history . This is because using morphine with certain medical conditions can be risky. So, if you have any of the conditions below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

• Head-related problems: Brain tumor, head injury.
• Breathing difficulties: Asthma or other lung diseases .
• Blood problems: If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking medication that prevents blood clotting .
• Other medical conditions: Heart disease , seizures , intestinal or stomach problems, difficulty urinating, low adrenal gland function.
• Habits and other medications: If you are a heavy drinker, have a drug addiction, or have taken a medication in the ``(MAOI)`` class (e.g. Marplan, Nardil) within the past 14 days.
• Allergies: If you have an allergy to morphine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• Special circumstances: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor without hiding these things.

How do you use this medicine?

This vaccine is usually given into a muscle, a vein, or under the skin . It is usually given to you in a hospital or clinic.

However, if you do need to use it at home, you will be taught clearly how to prepare and inject it. Take the medicine exactly as directed, at the right time . Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

Check these things before using the medicine.

Look carefully at the liquid before using the vaccine. Do not use the vaccine if it is darker than light yellow, has changed color in any way, is cloudy, thickened, or has particles in it.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately . Or, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital without delay. This medicine has been prescribed for you only, so never share it with anyone else.

How does morphine interact with other medications?

Morphine is a drug that has a high potential for interaction with other medications, so it is very important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

This list is not exhaustive. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including herbs, vitamins, and supplements.

Things to consider when taking medication

Addiction and Tolerance

This is very important. When you take morphine for a long time, you may need a slightly higher dose to control the pain you used to have. This is called ``tolerance''. This is normal, and it does not mean that you are addicted to the drug.Addiction is the use of a drug for purposes other than a medical reason. If you are taking the drug because you are in pain, it is a medical necessity.

Do not stop taking the medication suddenly. Doing so can cause severe reactions. If you need to stop taking the medication, your doctor will gradually reduce the dosage.

Be aware of Naloxone

Naloxone is an emergency drug that can be given to reverse an overdose of an opioid, such as morphine. Talk to your doctor about how to get it and how to use it. Be aware of the symptoms of an overdose, such as difficulty breathing, extreme sleepiness, and inability to wake up.

Drowsiness and dizziness

This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy. Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not get up from a sitting position suddenly, especially if you are elderly. This can reduce the risk of dizziness and falls. Avoid drinking alcohol.

Constipation

Constipation is very common with this medication. If you do not have a bowel movement after 3 days, call your doctor.

Side effects that may occur due to medication

If you experience any other side effects not listed on this list, please inform your doctor.