Morphine (injection)
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Chetan Lokhande, M.B.B.S [2]
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Black Box Warning
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Warning: addiction, abuse, and misuse; life-threatening respiratory depression; accidental ingestion; neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome; and interaction with alcohol
See full prescribing information for complete Boxed Warning.
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Overview
Morphine (injection) is an analgesic opioid that is FDA approved for the {{{indicationType}}} of oramorph(R) SR 15, 30, 60, and 100 mg have been discontinued from the market. Pain, chronic, intractable, pain, chronic (severe), in patients requiring a long-term daily around-the-clock opioid analgesic, pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics.. There is a Black Box Warning for this drug as shown here. Common adverse reactions include dermatologic: pruritus (up to 80% ), gastrointestinal: constipation (9% or greater ), nausea (oral, 7% and greater than 10% ; epidural or intrathecal, 15% to 70% ), vomiting (greater than 10% ), neurologic: dizziness (6% ), headache (less than 2% to greater than 10% ), lightheadedness, somnolence ( 3% or greater ), ophthalmic: miosis,renal: Urinary retention (oral, less than 5% ; epidural/intrathecal, 15% to 70% ).
Adult Indications and Dosage
FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Adult)
- Recall Info:Oramorph(R) SR 15, 30, 60, and 100 mg have been discontinued from the market.
- An opioid-tolerant patient is defined as use of at least 60 mg/day of morphine, at least 30 mg/day of oral oxycodone, at least 8 mg/day of oral hydromorphone, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid for a week or longer.
- Morphine sulfate oral solution 100 mg per 5 mL (20 mg/mL) is reserved for opioid-tolerant patients only; fatal respiratory depression has resulted from the mistaken interchange of high concentration oral solution with other available oral solutions (eg. 20 mg/5 mL and 10 mg/5 mL); verify dose in mg and mL.
- Preservative-free morphine sulfate sterile solutions 200 mg/20 mL or 500 mg/20 mL (high-potency) are reserved for intrathecal or epidural continuous infusion via microinfusion devices and may require dilution before use; high-potency formulations are not intended for use as single-dose IV/IM/subQ administration.
- (Immediate-release formulations) for conversion from parenteral to oral morphine immediate-release formulations, a dose ranging from 3 to 6 mg of oral morphine may be required for analgesia equivalent to 1 mg of parenteral morphine.
- Do not abruptly discontinue therapy after treatment for more than a few weeks, gradually taper dose to avoid precipitating withdrawal symptoms.
- Analgesia for a mechanically ventilated patient, Intensive care unit: continuous infusion, 0.07 to 0.5 mg/kg/hr IV.
- Analgesia for a mechanically ventilated patient, Intensive care unit: intermittent dosing, 0.01 to 0.15 mg/kg IV every 1 to 2 hours.
- Pain, chronic, Intractable: individualize dose based on response to in-hospital serial single-dose epidural or intrathecal injections of standard morphine sulfate 0.5 mg/mL or 1 mg/mL.
- Pain, chronic, Intractable: (epidural infusion via continuous microinfusion device, preservative-free) initial 3.5 to 7.5 mg (non-opioid-tolerant) or 4.5 to 10 mg (opioid-tolerant) per day epidurally; may increase to 20 to 30 mg/day; Max dose individualized.
- Pain, chronic, Intractable: (intrathecal infusion via continuous microinfusion device, preservative-free) initial 0.2 to 1 mg (non-opioid-tolerant) or 1 to 10 mg/day (opioid-tolerant) intrathecally; Max dose individualized; caution with doses greater than 20 mg/day.
- Pain, chronic (severe), in patients requiring a long-term daily around-the-clock opioid analgesic: individualize dose; initial dose selection must take into account patient's prior analgesic treatment experience and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse; due to substantial inter-patient variability in relative potency of different opioid products, including differences in extended-release morphine products, when converting it is recommended to underestimate a patient's 24-hour oral morphine requirements and provide rescue mediation as needed.
- Pain, chronic (severe), in patients requiring a long-term daily around-the-clock opioid analgesic: (Avinza(R) extended-release): as first opioid analgesic, when not opioid tolerant, or when converting from other opioids: initiate with 30 mg orally every 24 hours; conversion from other oral morphine formulations: initiate with patient's total daily oral morphine requirement orally every 24 hours; conversion from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids: initiate with one-half of the estimated daily morphine requirement and provide rescue medication as needed (an oral dose that is 3 times the daily parenteral requirement is usually sufficient); titrate in increments not greater than 30 mg orally every 3 to 4 days; Max: 1600 mg/day; use of Avinza(R) 90-mg and 120-mg capsules is restricted to opioid-tolerant patients.
- Pain, chronic (severe), in patients requiring a long-term daily around-the-clock opioid analgesic: (Kadian(R) extended-release): when not opioid tolerant or when converting from other opioids: initiate with 30 mg orally every 24 hours; conversion from immediate-release morphine, take one-half of the total daily oral morphine requirement orally once every 12 hours OR take total daily oral morphine requirement orally once every 24 hours; conversion from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids: initiate with one-half of the estimated daily morphine requirement and provide rescue medication as needed (an oral dose that is 3 times the daily parenteral requirement is usually sufficient); may titrate every 1 to 2 days; use of 100-mg, 130-mg, 150-mg, or 200-mg capsules is restricted to opioid-tolerant patients.
- Pain, chronic (severe), in patients requiring a long-term daily around-the-clock opioid analgesic: (MS Contin(R) controlled-release) when not opioid tolerant: initiate with 15 mg every orally every 12 hours; as first opioid analgesic: initiate with 15 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours; conversion from immediate-release morphine, take one-half of the total daily oral morphine requirement orally every 12 hours OR one-third of the total daily oral morphine requirement orally every 8 hours; conversion from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids: initiate with one-half of the estimated daily morphine requirement and provide rescue medication as needed (an oral dose that is 3 times the daily parenteral requirement is usually sufficient); may titrate every 1 to 2 days; use of 100-mg and 200-mg tablets is restricted to opioid-tolerant patients.
- Pain, chronic (severe), in patients requiring a long-term daily around-the-clock opioid analgesic: (extended-release tablets; (Mallinckrodt, Inc)) as a conversion from immediate-release morphine, convert one-half of the estimated total daily oral morphine requirement orally once every 12 hours, or one-third of the total daily oral morphine requirement orally every 8 hours; when the daily morphine requirement is expected to be less than 60 mg/day, then the 15-mg tablet strength is recommended, and when the daily requirement is expected to be between 60 mg to 120 mg per day, then the 30-mg tablet strength is recommended; as a conversion from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids, underestimate patient's 24-hour oral morphine requirement and provide rescue medication as needed; may titrate every 1 to 2 days; use of 100-mg and 200-mg tablets is restricted to opioid-tolerant patients only.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: individualize dose.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (IV) initial, 2 mg to 10 mg slow IV per 70 kg body weight; may repeat every 4 hours as needed.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (subQ/IM) 10 mg (range, 5 to 20 mg) SUBQ/IM may repeat every 4 hours as needed.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (epidural, preservative-free) initial, 5 mg epidurally in lumbar region; may increase incrementally by 1 to 2 mg within 1 hour; MAX: 10 mg/24 hours.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (intrathecal, preservative-free) 0.2 to 1 mg intrathecally into lumbar region; repeat dosing not recommended; max 10 mg.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (immediate-release oral solution) 10 to 20 mg orally every 4 hours as needed.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (immediate-release tablet) initial, 15 to 30 mg (non-opioid-tolerant) orally every 4 hours as needed.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (rectal suppositories) 10 to 20 mg rectally every 4 hours.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (myocardial infarction) initial, 4 to 8 mg IV, then 2 to 8 mg IV every 5 to 15 minutes as needed (guideline dosing).
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (myocardial infarction) 8 to 15 mg slow IV or IM/SUBQ; for very severe pain, may administer additional smaller doses every 3 to 4 hours (manufacturer dosing).
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (labor) 10 mg SUBQ/IM.
- Pain (moderate to severe), not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (IV patient-controlled analgesia) initial after loading dose, 1 mg IV; range, 0.5 to 2.5 mg with lockout of 5 to 10 minutes (Anon, 2003)
Off-Label Use and Dosage (Adult)
Guideline-Supported Use
- Oramorph(R) SR 15, 30, 60, and 100 mg have been discontinued from the market.
- Analgesia for a mechanically ventilated patient, intensive care unit.
- Pain in eye.
Non–Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information about Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Morphine in adult patients.
Pediatric Indications and Dosage
FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric)
- Recall Info:Oramorph(R) SR 15, 30, 60, and 100 mg have been discontinued from the market.
- An opioid-tolerant patient is defined as use of at least 60 mg/day of morphine, at least 30 mg/day of oral oxycodone, at least 8 mg/day of oral hydromorphone, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid for a week or longer.
- Morphine sulfate oral solution 100 mg per 5 mL (20 mg/mL) is reserved for opioid-tolerant patients only; fatal respiratory depression has resulted from the mistaken interchange of high concentration oral solution with other available oral solutions (eg. 20 mg/5 mL and 10 mg/5 mL); verify dose in mg and mL.
- Use in premature infants not recommended.
- Safety and effectiveness in newborn infants not established.
- Safety and effectiveness of spinal administration not studied in pediatric patients.
- Safety and effectiveness of morphine sulfate formulations have not been studied in patients younger than 18 years.
- Analgesia for a mechanically ventilated patient, Intensive care unit: continuous infusion, 0.01 to 0.03 mg/kg/hr.
- Pain (moderate to severe),not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: individualize dose
- Pain (moderate to severe),not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (intermittent dosing) 0.03 to 0.1 mg/kg/dose IV, IM, or SUBQ; MAX 0.2 mg/kg or 10 mg/dose; repeat as required (usually every 2 to 4 hours).
- Pain (moderate to severe),not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (continuous infusion) 0.02 to 0.06 mg/kg/hour IV or SUBQ.
- Pain (moderate to severe),not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (epidural, preservative-free) single-dose 0.02 to 0.05 mg/kg epidurally
- Pain (moderate to severe),not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics: (oral, immediate-release) children less than 50 kg, initial, 0.3 mg/kg orally; repeat as required (usually every 3 to 4 hours); MAX 15 to 20 mg/dose for oral solution and 15 to 30 mg/dose for oral tablets.
Off-Label Use and Dosage (Pediatric)
Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information about Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Morphine in pediatric patients.
Non–Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information about Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Morphine in pediatric patients.
Contraindications
- Morphine sulfate extended-release is contraindicated in patients with:
- Significant respiratory depression
- Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment
- Known or suspected paralytic ileus
- Hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to morphine [see Adverse Reactions]
Warnings
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Warning: addiction, abuse, and misuse; life-threatening respiratory depression; accidental ingestion; neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome; and interaction with alcohol
See full prescribing information for complete Boxed Warning.
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- Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
- Morphine sulfate extended-release contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, morphine sulfate extended-release exposes users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse [see Drug Abuse and Dependence]. As modified-release products such as morphine sulfate extended-release deliver the opioid over an extended period of time, there is a greater risk for overdose and death due to the larger amount of morphine present.
- Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed morphine sulfate extended-release and in those who obtain the drug illicitly. Addiction can occur at recommended doses and if the drug is misused or abused.
- Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing morphine sulfate extended-release, and monitor all patients receiving morphine sulfate extended-release for the development of these behaviors or conditions. Risks are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol addiction or abuse) or mental illness (e.g., major depression). The potential for these risks should not, however, prevent the prescribing of morphine sulfate extended-release for the proper management of pain in any given patient. Patients at increased risk may be prescribed modified-release opioid formulations such as morphine sulfate extended-release, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks and proper use of morphine sulfate extended-release along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
- Abuse or misuse of morphine sulfate extended-release by crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product will result in the uncontrolled delivery of the morphine and can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage].
- Opioid agonists such as morphine sulfate extended-release are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal diversion. Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing morphine sulfate extended-release. Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on the proper disposal of unused drug [see Patient Counseling Information]. Contact local state professional licensing board or state controlled substances authority for information on how to prevent and detect abuse or diversion of this product.
- Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
- Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of modified-release opioids, even when used as recommended. Respiratory depression from opioid use, if not immediately recognized and treated, may lead to respiratory arrest and death. Management of respiratory depression may include close observation, supportive measures, and use of opioid antagonists, depending on the patient’s clinical status [see Overdosage]. Carbon dioxide (CO2) retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids.
- While serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression can occur at any time during the use of morphine sulfate extended-release, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dose increase. Closely monitor patients for respiratory depression when initiating therapy with morphine sulfate extended-release and following dose increases.
- To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of morphine sulfate extended-release are essential [see Dosage and Administration]. Overestimating the morphine sulfate extended-release dose when converting patients from another opioid product can result in fatal overdose with the first dose.
- Accidental ingestion of even one dose of morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, especially by children, can result in respiratory depression and death due to an overdose of morphine.
- Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
- Prolonged use of morphine sulfate extended-release during pregnancy can result in withdrawal signs in the neonate. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
- Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome presents as irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea and failure to gain weight. The onset, duration, and severity of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination of the drug by the newborn.
- Interactions with Central Nervous System Depressants
- Patients must not consume alcoholic beverages or prescription or non-prescription products containing alcohol while on morphine sulfate extended-release therapy. The co-ingestion of alcohol with morphine sulfate extended-release may result in increased plasma levels and a potentially fatal overdose of morphine [see Clinical Pharmacology].
- Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, and death may result if morphine sulfate extended-release is used concomitantly with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., sedatives, anxiolytics, hypnotics, neuroleptics, other opioids).
- When considering the use of morphine sulfate extended-release in a patient taking a CNS depressant, assess the duration of use of the CNS depressant and the patient’s response, including the degree of tolerance that has developed to CNS depression. Additionally, evaluate the patient’s use of alcohol or illicit drugs that cause CNS depression. If the decision to begin morphine sulfate extended-release is made, start with morphine sulfate extended-release 30 mg every 24 hours, monitor patients for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, and consider using a lower dose of the concomitant CNS depressant [see Drug Interactions].
- Use in Elderly, Cachectic, and Debilitated Patients
- Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients as they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients. Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating morphine sulfate extended-release and when morphine sulfate extended-release is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Warnings and Precautions].
- Use in Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease
- Monitor patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and patients having a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or pre-existing respiratory depression for respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy and titrating with morphine sulfate extended-release, as in these patients, even usual therapeutic doses of morphine sulfate extended-release may decrease respiratory drive to the point of apnea [see Warnings and Precautions]. Consider the use of alternative non-opioid analgesics in these patients if possible.
- Hypotensive Effect
- Morphine sulfate extended-release may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory patients. There is an increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs (e.g. phenothiazines or general anesthetics) [see Drug Interactions]. Monitor these patients for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dose of morphine sulfate extended-release. In patients with circulatory shock, morphine sulfate extended-release may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure. Avoid the use of morphine sulfate extended-release in patients with circulatory shock.
- Use in Patients with Head Injury or Increased Intracranial Pressure
- Monitor patients taking morphine sulfate extended-release who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors) for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with morphine sulfate extended-release. Morphine sulfate extended-release may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure. Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury.
- Avoid the use of morphine sulfate extended-release in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
- Use in Patients with Gastrointestinal Conditions
- Morphine sulfate extended-release is contraindicated in patients with paralytic ileus. Avoid the use of morphine sulfate extended-release in patients with other GI obstruction.
- The morphine in morphine sulfate extended-release may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi. Monitor patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis, for worsening symptoms. Opioids may cause increases in the serum amylase.
- Use in Patients with Convulsive or Seizure Disorders
- The morphine in morphine sulfate extended-release may aggravate convulsions in patients with convulsive disorders, and may induce or aggravate seizures in some clinical settings. Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during morphine sulfate extended-release therapy.
- Avoidance of Withdrawal
- Avoid the use of mixed agonist/antagonist (i.e., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) or partial agonist (buprenorphine) analgesics in patients who have received or are receiving a course of therapy with a opioid agonist analgesic, including morphine sulfate extended-release. In these patients, mixed agonist/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect and/or may precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
- When discontinuing morphine sulfate extended-release, gradually taper the dose [see Dosage and Administration]. Do not abruptly discontinue morphine sulfate extended-release.
- Driving and Operating Machinery
- Morphine sulfate extended-release may impair the mental or physical abilities needed to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating machinery. Warn patients not to drive or operate dangerous machinery unless they are tolerant to the effects of morphine sulfate extended-release and know how they will react to the medication.
Adverse Reactions
Clinical Trials Experience
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling:
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Life Threatening Respiratory Depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Interactions with Other CNS Depressants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] Hypotensive Effect [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)] Gastrointestinal Effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]
The most common adverse reactions with morphine sulfate extended-release include constipation, nausea and somnolence.
Clinical Trial Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
In controlled and open-label clinical studies, 560 patients with chronic malignant or non-malignant pain were treated with morphine sulfate extended-release. The most common serious adverse events reported with administration of morphine sulfate extended-release were vomiting, nausea, death, dehydration, dyspnea, and sepsis. (Deaths occurred in patients treated for pain due to underlying malignancy.) Serious adverse events caused by morphine include respiratory depression, apnea, and to a lesser degree, circulatory depression, respiratory arrest, shock and cardiac arrest.
The most common adverse events (seen in greater than 10%) reported by patients treated with morphine sulfate extended-release during the clinical trials at least once during therapy were constipation, nausea, somnolence, vomiting, and headache. Adverse events occurring in 5 to 10% of study patients were peripheral edema, diarrhea, abdominal pain, infection, urinary tract infection, accidental injury, flu syndrome, back pain, rash, sweating, fever, insomnia, depression, paresthesia, anorexia, dry mouth, asthenia and dyspnea. Other less common side effects expected from opioid analgesics, including morphine, or seen in fewer than 5% of patients taking morphine sulfate extended-release in the clinical trials were:
Body as a Whole: malaise, withdrawal syndrome. Cardiovascular System: bradycardia, hypertension, hypotension, palpitations, syncope, tachycardia. Digestive System: biliary pain, dyspepsia, dysphagia, gastroenteritis, abnormal liver function tests, rectal disorder, thirst. Hemic and Lymphatic System: anemia, thrombocytopenia. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: edema, weight loss. Musculoskeletal: skeletal muscle rigidity. Nervous System: abnormal dreams, abnormal gait, agitation, amnesia, anxiety, ataxia, confusion, convulsions, coma, delirium, euphoria, hallucinations, lethargy, nervousness, abnormal thinking, tremor, vasodilation, vertigo. Respiratory System: hiccup, hypoventilation, voice alteration. Skin and Appendages: dry skin, urticaria. Special Senses: amblyopia, eye pain, taste perversion. Urogenital System: abnormal ejaculation, dysuria, impotence, decreased libido, oliguria, urinary retention.
Anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in morphine sulfate extended-release. Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention.
Postmarketing Experience
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Postmarketing Experience in the drug label.
Drug Interactions
7.1 Alcohol
Concomitant use of alcohol with morphine sulfate extended-release can result in an increase of morphine plasma levels and potentially fatal overdose of morphine. Instruct patients not to consume alcoholic beverages or use prescription or non-prescription products containing alcohol while on morphine sulfate extended-release therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
7.2 CNS Depressants
The concomitant use of morphine sulfate extended-release with other CNS depressants including sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, other opioids, and alcohol, can increase the risk of respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma and death. Monitor patients receiving CNS depressants and morphine sulfate extended-release for signs of respiratory depression, sedation and hypotension.
When combined therapy with any of the above medications is considered, the dose of one or both agents should be reduced [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
7.3 Mixed Agonist/Antagonist and Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics
Mixed agonist/antagonist (i.e., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) and partial agonist (buprenorphine) analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect of morphine sulfate extended-release or may precipitate withdrawal symptoms. Avoid the use of agonist/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics in patients receiving morphine sulfate extended-release.
7.4 Muscle Relaxants
Morphine may enhance the neuromuscular blocking action of skeletal muscle relaxants and produce an increased degree of respiratory depression. Monitor patients receiving muscle relaxants and morphine sulfate extended-release for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected.
7.5 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
The effects of morphine may be potentiated by MAOIs. Monitor patients on concurrent therapy with an MAOI and morphine sulfate extended-release for increased respiratory and central nervous system depression. MAOIs have been reported to potentiate the effects of morphine anxiety, confusion, and significant depression of respiration or coma. Morphine sulfate extended-release should not be used in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment.
7.6 Cimetidine
Cimetidine can potentiate morphine-induced respiratory depression. There is a report of confusion and severe respiratory depression when a patient undergoing hemodialysis was concurrently administered morphine and cimetidine. Monitor patients for respiratory depression when morphine sulfate extended-release and cimetidine are used concurrently.
7.7 Diuretics
Morphine can reduce the efficacy of diuretics by inducing the release of antidiuretic hormone. Morphine may also lead to acute retention of urine by causing spasm of the sphincter of the bladder, particularly in men with enlarged prostates.
7.8 Anticholinergics
Anticholinergics or other medications with anticholinergic activity when used concurrently with opioid analgesics may result in increased risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when morphine sulfate extended-release is used concurrently with anticholinergic drugs.
7.9 P-Glycoprotein (PGP) Inhibitors
PGP inhibitors (e.g. quinidine) may increase the absorption/exposure of morphine sulfate by about two-fold. Therefore, monitor patients for signs of respiratory and central nervous system depression when morphine sulfate extended-release is used concurrently with PGP inhibitors.
Use in Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category (FDA): C Clinical Considerations Fetal/neonatal adverse reactions Prolonged use of opioid analgesics during pregnancy for medical or nonmedical purposes can result in physical dependence in the neonate and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome shortly after birth. Observe newborns for symptoms of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, such as poor feeding, diarrhea, irritability, tremor, rigidity, and seizures, and manage accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Teratogenic Effects - Pregnancy Category C There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Morphine sulfate extended-release should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
In humans, the frequency of congenital anomalies has been reported to be no greater than expected among the children of 70 women who were treated with morphine during the first four months of pregnancy or in 448 women treated with morphine anytime during pregnancy. Furthermore, no malformations were observed in the infant of a woman who attempted suicide by taking an overdose of morphine and other medication during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Several literature reports indicate that morphine administered subcutaneously during the early gestational period in mice and hamsters produced neurological, soft tissue and skeletal abnormalities. With one exception, the effects that have been reported were following doses that were maternally toxic and the abnormalities noted were characteristic of those observed when maternal toxicity is present. In one study, following subcutaneous infusion of doses greater than or equal to 0.15 mg/kg to mice, exencephaly, hydronephrosis, intestinal hemorrhage, split supraoccipital, malformed sternebrae, and malformed xiphoid were noted in the absence of maternal toxicity. In the hamster, morphine sulfate given subcutaneously on gestation day 8 produced exencephaly and cranioschisis. In rats treated with subcutaneous infusions of morphine during the period of organogenesis, no teratogenicity was observed. No maternal toxicity was observed in this study, however, increased mortality and growth retardation were seen in the offspring. In two studies performed in the rabbit, no evidence of teratogenicity was reported at subcutaneous doses up to 100 mg/kg.
Nonteratogenic Effects Infants born to mothers who have taken opioids chronically may exhibit neonatal withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)], reversible reduction in brain volume, small size, decreased ventilatory response to CO2 and increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Morphine sulfate should be used by a pregnant woman only if the need for opioid analgesia clearly outweighs the potential risks to the fetus.
Controlled studies of chronic in utero morphine exposure in pregnant women have not been conducted. Published literature has reported that exposure to morphine during pregnancy in animals is associated with reduction in growth and a host of behavioral abnormalities in the offspring. Morphine treatment during gestational periods of organogenesis in rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits resulted in the following treatment-related embryotoxicity and neonatal toxicity in one or more studies: decreased litter size, embryo-fetal viability, fetal and neonatal body weights, absolute brain and cerebellar weights, delayed motor and sexual maturation, and increased neonatal mortality, cyanosis and hypothermia. Decreased fertility in female offspring, and decreased plasma and testicular levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, decreased testes weights, seminiferous tubule shrinkage, germinal cell aplasia, and decreased spermatogenesis in male offspring were also observed. Decreased litter size and viability were observed in the offspring of male rats administered morphine (25 mg/kg, IP) for 1 day prior to mating. Behavioral abnormalities resulting from chronic morphine exposure of fetal animals included altered reflex and motor skill development, mild withdrawal, and altered responsiveness to morphine persisting into adulthood.
Pregnancy Category (AUS):
There is no Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) guidance on usage of Morphine (injection) in women who are pregnant.
Labor and Delivery
There is no FDA guidance on use of Morphine (injection) during labor and delivery.
Nursing Mothers
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) in women who are nursing.
Pediatric Use
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) in pediatric settings.
Geriatic Use
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) in geriatric settings.
Gender
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) with respect to specific gender populations.
Race
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) with respect to specific racial populations.
Renal Impairment
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) in patients with renal impairment.
Hepatic Impairment
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) in patients with hepatic impairment.
Females of Reproductive Potential and Males
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Morphine (injection) in women of reproductive potentials and males.
Immunocompromised Patients
There is no FDA guidance one the use of Morphine (injection) in patients who are immunocompromised.
Administration and Monitoring
Administration
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Administration in the drug label.
Monitoring
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Monitoring in the drug label.
IV Compatibility
There is limited information regarding the compatibility of Morphine (injection) and IV administrations.
Overdosage
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) overdosage. If you suspect drug poisoning or overdose, please contact the National Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Morphine sulfate, an opioid agonist, is relatively selective for the mu receptor, although it can interact with other opioid receptors at higher doses. In addition to analgesia, the widely diverse effects of morphine include drowsiness, changes in mood, respiratory depression, decreased gastrointestinal motility, nausea, vomiting, and alterations of the endocrine and autonomic nervous system.
Morphine produces both its therapeutic and its adverse effects by interaction with one or more classes of specific opioid receptors located throughout the body. Morphine acts as a full agonist, binding with and activating opioid receptors at sites in the peri-aqueductal and peri-ventricular grey matter, the ventro-medial medulla and the spinal cord to produce analgesia
Structure
Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, USP (once daily) are for oral use and contain pellets of morphine sulfate. Morphine sulfate is an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor.
Each morphine sulfate extended-release capsule contains either 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, or 120 mg of morphine sulfate, USP and the following inactive ingredients: diethyl phthalate, ethylcellulose, gelatin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methacrylic acid copolymer, polyethylene glycol, sugar spheres, talc, and titanium dioxide. The 30 mg capsules also contain FD&C blue #1. The 45 mg capsules also contain FD&C blue #1 and FD&C red #3. The 60 mg capsules also contain D&C yellow #10 and FD&C green #3. The 75 mg capsules also contain black iron oxide, red iron oxide, and yellow iron oxide. The 90 mg capsules also contain black iron oxide, FD&C blue #1, and yellow iron oxide. The 120 mg capsules also contain FD&C blue #1.The ink ingredients are common for all strengths: Tek-Print SW-9008 or SW-9009 black contains: black iron oxide, butyl alcohol, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, potassium hydroxide, propylene glycol, purified water, shellac, and strong ammonia solution.
The chemical name of morphine sulfate is 7,8-didehydro-4,5 alpha-epoxy-17-methylmorphinan-3,6 alpha-diol sulfate (2:1) (salt) pentahydrate with a molecular weight of 758.83. The molecular formula is (C17H19NO3)2●H2SO4●5H2O.
Morphine sulfate is an odorless, white, crystalline powder. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol, but is practically insoluble in chloroform or ether. The octanol:water partition coefficient of morphine is 1.42 at physiologic pH and the pKa is 7.9 for the tertiary nitrogen (the majority is ionized at pH 7.4). Its structural formula is:
Pharmacodynamics
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Pharmacodynamics in the drug label.
Pharmacokinetics
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Pharmacokinetics in the drug label.
Nonclinical Toxicology
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Nonclinical Toxicology in the drug label.
Clinical Studies
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Clinical Studies in the drug label.
How Supplied
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) How Supplied in the drug label.
Storage
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Storage in the drug label.
Images
Drug Images
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Package and Label Display Panel
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Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use).
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Inform patients that the use of morphine sulfate extended-release, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose or death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Instruct patients not to share morphine sulfate extended-release with others and to take steps to protect morphine sulfate extended-release from theft or misuse.
Life-threatening Respiratory Depression Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, including information that the risk is greatest when starting morphine sulfate extended-release or when the dose is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended doses [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Advise patients how to recognize respiratory depression and to seek medical attention if breathing difficulties develop.
Accidental Ingestion Inform patients that accidental ingestion, especially in children, may result in respiratory depression or death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Instruct patients to take steps to store morphine sulfate extended-release securely and to dispose of unused morphine sulfate extended-release by flushing the capsules down the toilet.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Inform female patients of reproductive potential that prolonged use of morphine sulfate extended-release during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Interactions with Alcohol and other CNS Depressants Instruct patients not to consume alcoholic beverages, as well as prescription and over-the-counter products that contain alcohol, during treatment with morphine sulfate extended-release. The co-ingestion of alcohol with morphine sulfate extended-release may result in increased plasma levels and a potentially fatal overdose of morphine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Inform patients that potentially serious additive effects may occur if morphine sulfate extended-release is used with alcohol or other CNS depressants, and not to use such drugs unless supervised by a healthcare provider.
Important Administration Instructions Instruct patients how to properly take morphine sulfate extended-release, including the following:
Swallowing morphine sulfate extended-release capsules whole or sprinkling the capsule contents on applesauce and then swallowing immediately without chewing Not crushing, chewing, or dissolving the pellets in the capsules Using morphine sulfate extended-release exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of life-threatening adverse reactions (e.g., respiratory depression) Not discontinuing morphine sulfate extended-release without first discussing the need for a tapering regimen with the prescriber
Hypotension Inform patients that morphine sulfate extended-release may cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope. Instruct patients how to recognize symptoms of low blood pressure and how to reduce the risk of serious consequences should hypotension occur (e.g., sit or lie down, carefully rise from a sitting or lying position).
Driving or Operating Heavy Machinery Inform patients that morphine sulfate extended-release may impair the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating heavy machinery. Advise patients not to perform such tasks until they know how they will react to the medication.
Constipation Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention.
Anaphylaxis Inform patients that anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in morphine sulfate extended-release. Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention.
Pregnancy Advise female patients that morphine sulfate extended-release can cause fetal harm and to inform the prescriber if they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Disposal of Unused Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Capsules Advise patients to flush the unused capsules down the toilet when morphine sulfate extended-release is no longer needed.
Manufactured by: Actavis Elizabeth LLC 200 Elmora Avenue Elizabeth, NJ 07207 USA
40-9072
Revised – April 2014
Medication Guide
Morphine Sulfate (MOR-feen SUL-fate) Extended-Release Capsules, USP (Once Daily) CII
Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules are:
A strong prescription pain medicine that contains an opioid (narcotic) that is used to manage pain severe enough to require daily around-the-clock, long-term treatment with an opioid, when other pain treatments such as non-opioid pain medicines or immediate-release opioid medicines do not treat your pain well enough or you cannot tolerate them. A long-acting (extended-release) opioid pain medicine that can put you at risk for overdose and death. Even if you take your dose correctly as prescribed you are at risk for opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse that can lead to death. Not for use to treat pain that is not around-the-clock.
Important information about morphine sulfate extended-release capsules:
Get emergency help right away if you take too many morphine sulfate extended-release capsules (overdose). When you first start taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, when your dose is changed, or if you take too much (overdose), serious or life-threatening breathing problems that can lead to death may occur. Never give anyone your morphine sulfate extended-release capsules. They could die from taking it. Store morphine sulfate extended-release capsules away from children and in a safe place to prevent stealing or abuse. Selling or giving away morphine sulfate extended-release capsules is against the law.
Do not take morphine sulfate extended-release capsules if you have:
severe asthma, trouble breathing, or other lung problems. a bowel blockage or have narrowing of the stomach or intestines.
Before taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of:
● head injury, seizures ● liver, kidney, thyroid problems
● problems urinating ● pancreas or gallbladder problems
● abuse of street or prescription drugs, alcohol addiction, or mental health problems.
Tell your healthcare provider if you are:
pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Prolonged use of morphine sulfate extended-release capsules during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms in your newborn baby that could be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. breastfeeding. Morphine sulfate extended-release passes into breast milk and may harm your baby. taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules with certain other medicines can cause serious side effects.
When taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules:
Do not change your dose. Take morphine sulfate extended-release capsules exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Take your prescribed dose every 24 hours, at the same time every day. Do not take more than your prescribed dose in 24 hours. If you miss a dose, take your next dose at your usual time the next day. Swallow morphine sulfate extended-release capsules whole. Do not cut, break, chew, crush, dissolve, snort, or inject morphine sulfate extended-release capsules because this may cause you to overdose and die. If you cannot swallow morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, see the detailed Instructions for Use. Call your healthcare provider if the dose you are taking does not control your pain. Do not stop taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules without talking to your healthcare provider. After you stop taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, flush any unused capsules down the toilet.
While taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules DO NOT:
Drive or operate heavy machinery, until you know how morphine sulfate extended-release capsules affect you. Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules can make you sleepy, dizzy, or lightheaded. Drink alcohol, or use prescription or over-the-counter medicines containing alcohol. Using products containing alcohol during treatment with morphine sulfate extended-release capsules may cause you to overdose and die.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Instructions For Use
Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Capsules, USP (Once Daily) CII
If you cannot swallow morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, tell your healthcare provider. There may be another way to take morphine sulfate extended-release capsules that may be right for you. If your doctor tells you that you can take morphine sulfate extended-release capsules using this other way, follow these steps:
Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules can be opened and the pellets inside the capsule can be sprinkled over applesauce, as follows:
You should not receive morphine sulfate extended-release capsules through a nasogastric tube or gastric tube (stomach tube).
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Manufactured by: Actavis Elizabeth LLC 200 Elmora Avenue Elizabeth, NJ 07207 USA
40-9072 (MG 41-1185/0414)
Precautions with Alcohol
Alcohol-Morphine interaction has not been established. Talk to your doctor about the effects of taking alcohol with this medication.
Brand Names
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Brand Names in the drug label.
Look-Alike Drug Names
There is limited information regarding Morphine (injection) Look-Alike Drug Names in the drug label.
Drug Shortage Status
Price
References
The contents of this FDA label are provided by the National Library of Medicine.
- ↑ Jonsson T, Christensen CB, Jordening H, Frølund C (April 1988). "The bioavailability of rectally administered morphine". Pharmacol. Toxicol. 62 (4): 203–5. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0773.1988.tb01872.x. PMID 3387374.
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