Morphine is a narcotic analgesic, derived from opium. Most often prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain, morphine controls pain by acting on the central nervous system. It binds to opioid receptors to reduce the perception of pain, as well as the emotional response to pain. Usually taken as a pill or liquid by mouth, morphine comes in both short and long-acting forms.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects associated with the use of morphine include narcotic effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting. Such effects may impair a patient's ability to perform functions such as driving or operating machinery. They may also increase the risk of falling. A patient should be careful with getting up, changing position, and walking until he knows how the medicine will affect him. Also common with morphine are digestive tract side effects, such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea. A doctor may suggest the use of laxatives and/or stool softeners, increased intake of fluids and increasing the amount of fiber in the patient's diet to alleviate some of these. Other effects may include headache, insomnia, dry mouth, and warmth, tingling or redness of the skin. If any common side effects continue after several days or become extremely bothersome, the patient should contact his doctor or pharmacy.
Less Common Side Effects
Less common side effects associated with morphine may include respiratory problems such as slow or shallow breathing, low blood pressure, especially when sitting or standing up, slowed heart rate or, conversely, rapid heart rate. Other less common side effects are excessive sweating, tingling, trembling or shaking of the hands or feet, unusual weight gain or loss, and decreased sexual interest. As with the more common side effects, if these persist or are extremely irritating, a doctor or pharmacist should be contacted.
Rare Side Effects
The American Cancer Society lists some rare side effects of morphine as difficult or painful urination, darkened urine, dehydration, impotence, blurred vision and fever. If any of these side effects, or any others, are noticed a patient should notify his doctor immediately.
Psychological Side Effects
A number of psychological side effects are possible with morphine. These can include forgetfulness, abnormal dreams, confusion about identity, place, and time, mood changes, and depression, among others. A doctor should be contacted if these symptoms persist. Physical and/or psychological dependence on morphine are possible, particularly if it is taken over a long period of time. Care should be taken to make sure that the smallest effective dose possible is taken by the patient. A patient should never alter the dosage without consulting a doctor or nurse. In addition, a patient should not stop taking morphine without the supervision of a doctor. The medicine should be stopped gradually to avoid having withdrawal symptoms.
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