Diamorfina para el alivio del dolor

About diamorphine

What is diamorphine used for?

Diamorphine is a strong opioid painkiller used in particular to treat pain after a surgical operation and pain caused by cancer.

It may also be used following a heart attack, or for breathlessness caused by fluid in the lungs. It works on your nervous system and brain to reduce the amount of pain you feel.

What is diamorphine available as?

Diamorphine is available as:

• An injection.

• Spray nasal.

• Tabletas.

Diamorphine is usually given by injection. Tablets are rarely prescribed because other strong opioids, such as morphine, are absorbed better when taken by mouth.

For children with severe pain, diamorphine may be given as a nasal spray in hospital emergencies. This is quicker and less distressing than an injection.

Side effects of diamorphine

Common side effects of diamorphine are:

• Feeling drowsy or sleepy.

• Sensación de mareo.

• Me siento mal.

• Estar enfermo (vómitos).

• Estreñimiento.

• Boca seca.

Encontrará una lista completa en el prospecto del fabricante que acompaña al medicamento.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to manage diamorphine side effects

Si experimenta cualquier otro síntoma que considere que puede deberse a este medicamento, consulte a su médico o farmacéutico.

Who should not have diamorphine?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before taking diamorphine it is important that your doctor knows:

• Si está embarazada, esperando un bebé o en período de lactancia.

• If you have heart, liver, or kidney problems.

• Si tiene problemas de próstata o dificultades para orinar.

• If you have any breathing problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• If you have been told you have low blood pressure (hypotension).

• Si tiene problemas de tiroides o glándulas suprarrenales.

• If you have epilepsy.

• Si tiene un problema en el conducto biliar.

• If you have severe diarrhoea, or have been constipated for more than a week, or have an inflammatory bowel problem.

• If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

• Si ha sufrido recientemente un traumatismo craneoencefálico grave.

• If you have ever had a mental health problem called psychosis.

• Si alguna vez ha sido dependiente de las drogas o el alcohol.

• Si alguna vez ha tenido una reacción alérgica a un medicamento.

• Si está tomando otros medicamentos. Esto incluye cualquier medicamento que esté tomando y que pueda adquirirse sin receta, así como medicamentos a base de plantas y complementarios.

How diamorphine is given

• Diamorphine is usually given as an injection into a muscle or directly into a vein. A doctor or nurse will give the injection, and it may be repeated every four hours to control pain.

• Diamorphine can also be given as an injection just under the skin, often using a syringe driver.

• A syringe driver is a small device that delivers controlled doses through a needle that stays in place. This allows pain relief to be given when needed, without repeated injections. The device limits how much diamorphine can be given over 24 hours.

• In hospital, children with severe pain may be given diamorphine as a nasal spray. This provides fast pain relief and is often used in emergencies. The dose depends on the child’s weight.

Aproveche al máximo su tratamiento

• Read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicine. It explains how diamorphine works and lists possible side effects.

• Ask your doctor about alcohol. You may be advised not to drink alcohol while taking diamorphine, as it can increase side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.

• Driving may be affected. Diamorphine can slow your reactions and make driving unsafe. It is illegal to drive if your ability is impaired. If you do drive, carry proof that the medicine has been prescribed for you.

• If you are travelling abroad and need to take diamorphine with you, carry a letter from your doctor. Diamorphine is a controlled drug and is subject to legal restrictions in many countries.

• Check other medicines first. Some over-the-counter medicines can increase side effects when taken with diamorphine. Ask a pharmacist before taking any new medicine.

• Tell healthcare professionals that you are taking diamorphine before having any other treatment.

• Diamorphine is used for short periods only. Long-term use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness or irritability. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.

How to store diamorphine

• Mantenga todos los medicamentos fuera del alcance y de la vista de los niños.

• Almacenar en un lugar fresco y seco, lejos del calor y la luz directos.

Información importante sobre todos los medicamentos

Preguntas más frecuentes

How long does it take for diamorphine to work?

Diamorphine usually starts to work in 15-20 minutes when injected into a muscle, such as your thigh or bottom, and lasts for 2-4 hours.

Is it safe to have diamorphine during pregnancy?

Diamorphine is usually only used early in pregnancy. Using it for a long time can cause the baby to become dependent and have withdrawal symptoms after birth. If taken close to delivery, it can also affect the baby’s breathing

What's the difference between diamorphine and morphine?

Diamorphine is a stronger and faster-acting form of morphine. Once in the body, diamorphine is converted into morphine, but it reaches the brain more quickly, providing faster pain relief.

Is diamorphine addictive?

Yes, diamorphine can be addictive, especially with regular or long-term use. It can cause dependence, meaning you may experience withdrawal symptoms if it is stopped suddenly.