Morphine a common opiate analgesic narcotic used to treat moderate to severe cancer pain. Cancer-Pain.org suggests that while patients may not effectively communicate their experience with pain or the need for pain medication such as morphine, there are important signs that may indicate that symptoms have increased. As a caregiver, it is imperative to watch for these signs as they may indicate severe discomfort, pain or the progression of disease.
Short-term Effects
Post-operative pain requires a shorter-acting morphine to address the acute symptoms associated with surgical procedures or treatments. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America defines the proper use of morphine as a method to treat pain that is connected with perception and role of opiate receptors in the gastrointestinal, brain or spinal cord centers. Short-term effects of this drug induce euphoria, yet can cause respiratory depression, excessive drowsiness and constipation that can be relieved with the use of laxatives.
Manages Severe Pain
Morphine is used in sublingual, or applied under the tongue, form to manage cancer symptoms with severe pain. The American Society of Clinical Oncology suggests that the sublingual type does not create a choking hazard, is easy to use, cost-effective and has a good safety profile for use in the relief of advancing disease symptoms. Recommendations for optimum pain relief in a daily dose ranges from 150 to 310 mg.
Relieves Breakthrough-tumor Pain
Breakthrough pain occurs when a tumor grows, moves or shifts to impair the functioning of nerves, organs or tissues. National Cancer Institute recommends using morphine on a regular, round-the-clock basis and increasing amounts periodically for pain spikes associated with breakthrough events. Amounts must be adjusted on an individual, case-by-case basis to make allowances for other medications, treatments and need. The tablet form of morphine can be used in individuals with the ability to swallow; however, the care team may decide to switch to a convenient, easy to swallow liquid as needs change.
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