← Drug quick-reference

Morphine

Brand: MS Contin

Opioid analgesic (C-II)Used for: Severe painPain & Inflammation
Boxed warning · ISMP high-alert drug

Addiction, abuse, and misuse; life-threatening respiratory depression; profound sedation and death with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants; neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome with prolonged use in pregnancy.

Caution
Extended-release products must not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved.
Pregnancy
Prolonged use in pregnancy causes neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (boxed).

Common side effects

  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Slowed breathing
  • Itching

Key interactions

  • Dangerous sedation with benzodiazepines
  • Adds to alcohol and other sedatives
  • Avoid MAO inhibitors

Counseling points

  • May impair driving
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Use a stool softener for constipation
  • Swallow extended-release whole, do not crush
  • Controlled substance, store securely
We ask 10 questions about Morphine.Practice Morphine →Test yourself on medications like Morphine.Practice Medications →
← MethadoneNaproxen →

High-yield study aid for exam prep, not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.