Side Effects Of Morphine Sulfate Er

Morphine sulfate ER is a controlled substance available in oral tablet and capsule forms. It is an extended-release formulation of morphine sulfate, a strong pain medication. This medicine is given when more than a few days of moderate to severe pain is anticipated. This drug is potent and often abused and must be kept safely away from children, teens and anyone who might divert it to themselves or others.

Sedation

A common side effect of morphine is sedation, which can lead to oversedation. This is often referred to as excessive drowsiness. You may not feel like moving around and may sleep more than usual. You may feel weak and become temporarily confused about who you are or where you are. You may experience an odd mood or feel "high." Many patients are urged not to drive or engage in critical tasks, as their physical and mental abilities become impaired while taking this medicine. Your physician can advise you relative to the specifics of your condition.

Shallow Breathing

Morphine affects your respiratory system and can have the side effect of shallow breathing. You also may breathe more slowly than normal, and some patients stop breathing. Morphine also inhibits coughing, which can become a problem for patients who need to cough up phlegm. Occasionally, pneumonia will develop when secretions collect in the lung instead of being coughed up.

Lowered Blood Pressure

This narcotic can lower blood pressure, especially when standing abruptly from a seated or lying position. According to Drugs.com, this lowered blood pressure can lead to a complex release of chemicals that causes red eyes, sweating, flushing and itching. Other cardiovascular side effects include fast heart rate, slow heart rate, fainting, irregular heart rhythm and the sensation of the heart pounding in the chest. This medication can cause the heart to stop or cause shock.

Poor Appetite

Morphine sulfate can cause you to lose your appetite. This is a result of the drug affecting the digestion of your food and slowing the movement of your digestive tract. This may lead to constipation, nausea and vomiting. Weight loss is often noted with long-term use.

Dependence

According to the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide," you may become tolerant to morphine, which means that you will require a higher dose of the medicine to control the same amount of pain after long-term use. You may also become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Many patients have successfully resolved these issues, however, and this should not hamper you from receiving adequate pain control.

Caution

Crushing, cutting, breaking or chewing this extended-release medication can be toxic or fatal. Stopping this drug abruptly after long-term use can have serious effects as well. Your physician can safely advise you on discontinuing the medicine gradually.