Morfina para aliviar el dolor

About morphine

What is morphine used for?

Morphine is a strong opioid painkiller that is used to treat severe or long-term (chronic) pain when weaker painkillers are not effective.

It is most commonly used for pain after surgery, serious injury, or in conditions such as cancer-related pain.

Morphine works by acting on the brain and nervous system to reduce how much pain you feel.

What is morphine available as?

Morphine is available in several forms, including:

• Liquid or tablets taken by mouth.

• Slow-release tablets or capsules for long-lasting pain relief.

• Injections, which are often used in hospitals, especially after surgery.

There are different brands of oral morphine, and they are not all absorbed by the body in the same way. Once you start taking one brand, you should continue with the same one unless your doctor advises a change.

Side effects of morphine

Common side effects of morphine include:

• Me siento mal.

• Estar enfermo (vómitos).

• Shallow breathing.

• Sensación de mareo.

• Feeling sleepy or drowsy.

• 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 morphine side effects

Who should not take morphine?

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

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

• Si tiene problemas hepáticos o renales.

• Si tiene problemas de próstata o dificultades para orinar.

• If you have a heart condition or heart rhythm problems.

• 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, páncreas o glándulas suprarrenales.

• If you have epilepsy.

• Si tiene un problema en el conducto biliar.

• Si ha estado estreñido durante más de una semana o tiene un problema inflamatorio intestinal.

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

• Si ha sufrido recientemente un traumatismo craneoencefálico grave.

• 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 to take morphine

• Read the leaflet inside the pack before you start. It explains your specific morphine brand and possible side effects.

• Take morphine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You may be told to take it regularly or only when needed.

• Check the label on the pack to confirm your dose.

• Swallow slow-release tablets whole with water. Do not crush or break them.

• Slow-release capsules can usually be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled on soft food (such as yoghurt). Check the pack label for instructions.

• Morphine comes in different strengths, so check each prescription to make sure it is the correct strength.

• You can take morphine with or without food.

• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Aproveche al máximo su tratamiento

• Ask your doctor about alcohol. You may be advised not to drink while taking morphine, as alcohol can increase side effects like dizziness and sleepiness.

• Morphine can affect driving. Do not drive if your reactions are slowed or you feel drowsy.

• If you do drive, carry proof that morphine has been prescribed for you (such as the patient leaflet or prescription slip).

• Tell healthcare professionals (including dentists) that you are taking morphine before any treatment or surgery.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking any other medicines. Some medicines can increase morphine’s side effects when taken together.

• If travelling abroad, carry a letter from your doctor, as morphine is a controlled medicine and may be restricted in some countries.

• Only take morphine for as long as prescribed. Taking it for longer can lead to dependence.

• Stopping morphine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness or irritability. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.

How to store morphine

• 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 morphine to work?

Morphine in tablet and liquid form usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes. The effects of morphine usually last around 4-6 hours, with slow-releasing morphine lasting longer.

Is it safe to take morphine during pregnancy?

Morphine is not usually recommended during pregnancy. Long-term or high-dose use can affect the baby and may cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, always speak to your doctor or midwife before taking morphine.

Is morphine addictive?

Yes, morphine can be addictive if used for long periods of time or at high doses. Your body can become dependent on it, meaning you may experience withdrawal symptoms if it is stopped suddenly.

Why is morphine used at the end of life?

Morphine is used at the end of life to relieve severe pain and breathlessness. It helps improve comfort and quality of life by reducing pain, easing distress, and helping patients feel more relaxed.