Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

← Back to all medicines

Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Morphine sulfate may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Morphine sulfate

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for This medicine has been prescribed for you for the relief of severe pain. It is also used to treat breathlessness caused by fluid in the lungs and as a pre-medication before operations. It contains morphine sulfate which belongs to a class of medicines called opioids, which are 'pain relievers'. This medicine has been prescribed to you and should not be given to anyone else. Opioids can cause addiction and you may get withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly. Your prescriber should have explained how long you will be taking it for and when it is appropriate to stop, how to do this safely.

What you need to know before you take it

Morphine Injection Morphine Injection should not be given if you:

  • are allergic to morphine sulfate or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6)
  • have been told you have a tumour of the adrenal gland near your kidney called phaeochromocytoma
  • have severe problems with breathing
  • have increased pressure on the brain, have just had a head injury or if you are unconscious
  • are suffering from acute alcoholism
  • are at risk from a blocked intestine (paralytic ileus)
  • have severe stomach cramps caused by a condition known as biliary colic
  • are suffering from severe diarrhea. Warnings and precautions Talk to your prescriber before taking this medicine if you:
  • are or have ever been addicted to opioids, alcohol, prescription medicines, or illegal drugs
  • have previously suffered withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, shaking or sweating, when you have stopped taking alcohol or drugs
  • feel you need to take more Morphine Injection to get the same level of pain relief, this may mean you are becoming tolerant to the effects of this medicine or are becoming addicted to it. Speak to your prescriber who will discuss your treatment and may change your dose or switch you to an alternative pain reliever. Taking this medicine regularly, particularly for a long time, can lead to addiction. Your prescriber should have explained how long you will be taking it for and when it is appropriate to stop, how to do this safely. Tolerance, dependence and addiction This medicine contains morphine which is an opioid medicine. Repeated use of opioids can result in the drug being less effective (you become accustomed to it, known as tolerance). Repeated use of Morphine Injection can also lead to dependence, abuse, and addiction, which may result in life-threatening overdose. The risk of these side effects can increase with a higher dose and longer duration of use. Dependence or addiction can make you feel that you are no longer in control of how much medicine you need to use of how often you need to use it. The risk of becoming dependent or addicted varies from person to person. You may have a greater risk of becoming dependent or addicted to Morphine Injection if:
  • you or anyone in your family have ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or illegal drugs ("addiction")
  • you are a smoker
  • you have ever had problems with your mood (depression, anxiety, or a personality disorder) or have been treated by a psychiatrist for other mental illnesses. If you notice any of the following signs whilst using Morphine Injection, it could be a sign that you have become dependent or addicted:
  • you need to use the medicine for longer than advised by your doctor
  • you need to use more than the recommended dose
  • you are using the medicine for reasons other than prescribed, for instance, 'to stay calm' or 'help you sleep'
  • you have made repeated, unsuccessful attempts to quit or control the use of the medicine
  • when you stop using the medicine you feel unwell, and you feel better once using the medicine again ('withdrawal effects'). If you notice any of these signs, speak to your doctor to discuss the best treatment pathway for you, including when it is appropriate to stop and how to stop safely (see section 3, If treatment with Morphine Injection is stopped). Withdrawal symptoms can include restlessness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, agitation, anxiety, feeling your heartbeat (palpitations), increased blood pressure, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, shaking, shivering or sweating. Your prescriber will discuss with you how to gradually reduce your dose before stopping

the medicine. It is important that you do not stop using the medicine suddenly as you will be more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Opioids should only be used by those they are prescribed for. Do not give your medicine to anyone else. Using higher doses or more frequent doses of opioid, may increase the risk of addiction. Overuse and misuse can lead to overdose and/or death. Take special care with Morphine Injection: Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) has been reported in association with Morphine Injection treatment. Symptoms usually occur within the first 10 days of treatment. Tell your doctor if you have ever developed a severe skin rash or skin peeling, blistering and/or mouth sores after being given Morphine Injection or other opioids. Stop using Morphine Injection and seek medical attention immediately, if you notice any of the following symptoms: blistering, widespread scaly skin or pus-filled spots together with fever. Contact your doctor if you experience severe upper abdominal pain possibly radiating to the back, nausea, vomiting or fever as this could be symptoms associated with inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) and the biliary tract system. Sleep-related breathing disorders Morphine Injection can cause sleep-related breathing disorders such as sleep apnoea (breathing pauses during sleep) and sleep related hypoxemia (low oxygen level in the blood). The symptoms can include breathing pauses during sleep, night awakening due to shortness of breath, difficulties to maintain sleep or excessive drowsiness during the day. If you or another person observe these symptoms, contact your doctor. A dose reduction may be considered by your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms when Morphine Injection is given to you:

  • Increased sensitivity to pain despite the fact that you are taking increasing doses (hyperalgesia). Your doctor will decide whether you will need a change in dose or a change in strong analgesic ("painkiller"), (see section 2)
  • Weakness, fatigue, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting or low blood pressure. This may be a symptom of the adrenals producing too little of the hormone cortisol, and you may need to take hormone supplement
  • Loss of libido, impotence, cessation of menstruation. This may be because of decreased sex hormone production. Talk to your doctor before Morphine Injection is given to you if you:
  • are using drugs or have used drugs in the past
  • suffer from asthma (your doctor may decide to administer Morphine Injection if your asthma is controlled. However, you should not be given this medicine if you are having an acute asthma attack)
  • suffer from bronchitis (an inflammation of the lining of the tubes in the lungs, resulting in coughing spells accompanied by thick phlegm and breathlessness) or emphysema (a lung condition which leaves you struggling for breath)
  • suffer from cor-pulmonale (a type of heart failure)
  • are severely obese
  • have a severely deformed spine
  • are suffering from mental illness brought on by an infection
  • have liver problems
  • have kidney problems
  • have problems with your bile duct
  • suffer from an enlarged prostate gland (in men) or have difficulty passing urine
  • have an under-active thyroid or adrenal gland
  • have low blood pressure
  • are in a state of severe shock
  • are very run down
  • have bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
  • suffer from blockages of the bowel
  • suffer from convulsions (fits)
  • are elderly
  • are feeling weak and feeble. If any of the above applies to you, speak to your doctor or nurse before Morphine Injection is given to you. Children This medicine is not recommended for use in children. Other medicines and Morphine Injection Tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
  • monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as moclobemide or phenelzine used in the treatment of depression
  • tricyclic antidepressants, which are used in the treatment of depression
  • tranquillising drugs or sleeping tablets such as diazepam, nitrazepam and temazepam
  • medicines used to treat mental illnesses, including schizophrenia (e.g. chlorpromazine, haloperidol)
  • medicines used for diarrhoea (e.g. loperamide, kaolin)
  • medicines which are used as premedication before operations and after heart attacks such as atropine
  • medicines used to treat nausea and vomiting, such as metoclopramide or domperidone
  • mexiletine, used to control heart rhythm
  • some antihistamines, used to treat allergies, hayfever and asthma
  • certain antibiotics, used to treat infections (e.g. ciprofloxacin and linezolid)
  • selegiline, used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease
  • pethidine, used to treat pain
  • rifampicin to treat e.g. tuberculosis
  • gabapentin or pregabalin to treat epilepsy and pain due to nerve problems (neuropathic pain)
  • concomitant use of Morphine Injection and sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs increases the risk of drowsiness, difficulties in breathing (respiratory depression), coma and may be lifethreatening. Because of this, concomitant use should only be considered when other treatment options are not possible. However if your doctor does prescribe Morphine Injection together with sedative medicines the dose and duration of concomitant treatment should be limited by your doctor. Please tell your doctor about all sedative medicines you are taking, and follow your doctor's dose recommendation closely. It could be

INFORMATION FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS 4.1 Therapeutic indications The symptomatic relief of severe pain; relief of dyspnoea of left ventricular failure and pulmonary oedema; pre-operative use. 4.2 Posology and method of administration Morphine Sulfate may be given by the subcutaneous, intramuscular or intravenous route. The subcutaneous route is not suitable for oedematous patients. The dosage should be based on the severity of the pain and the response and tolerance of the individual patient. The epidural or intrathecal routes must not be used as the product contains a preservative. Prior to starting treatment with opioids, a discussion should be held with patients to put in place a strategy for ending treatment with morphine sulphate in order to minimise the risk of addiction and drug withdrawal syndrome. Adults: Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection: 10mg every four hours if necessary (the dose may vary from 5-20mg depending on the individual patient). Slow intravenous injection (2mg/minute): Quarter to half of corresponding intramuscular dose not more than four hourly.

Elderly and debilitated patients: The dose should be reduced because of the depressant effect on respiration. Caution is required. Children: Use in children is not recommended. Hepatic impairment: A reduction in dosage should be considered in hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: The dosage should be reduced in moderate to severe renal impairment. For concomitant illnesses/conditions where dose reduction may be appropriate see 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use. Treatment goals and discontinuation Before initiating treatment with Morphine Sulfate, a treatment strategy including treatment duration and treatment goals, and a plan for end of the treatment, should be agreed together with the patient, in accordance with pain management guidelines. During treatment, there should be frequent contact between the physician and the patient to evaluate the need for continued treatment, consider discontinuation and to adjust dosages if needed. When a patient no longer requires therapy with Morphine Sulfate, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal. In absence of adequate pain control, the possibility of hyperalgesia, tolerance and progression of underlying disease should be considered

Customer

Wockhardt UK Limited

PRINTING COLOURS

Description

Morphine sulfate injection leaflet

Item Code

106963/6

Profile

as supplied

Size

460 x 150mm

Min.Point Size

Other

Market

UK

DATE

Warning! We cannot accept responsibility for any errors in this proof after approval. Whilst we take extreme care at all times to ensure accuracy to our client's brief, the final responsibility must be taken by our client. IF YOU SIGN THIS PROOF YOU ARE SIGNIFYING FULL APPROVAL OF DESIGN AND TEXT.

Actual Min Point Size 5.5pt

Language

English

Standard

Pharma Height

7mm Minimum

315

Barcode Proof By

KJA

Proof No.

2

Date

16.10.2023

Keyline (Non-Printing) Text Free Area (Non-Printing)

16 East Park Road | Leicester | LE5 4QA | UK

APPROVAL SIGNATURE

Black

TECHNICAL COLOURS

Body Text Fonts: Pragmatica Condensed

helpful to inform friends or relatives to be aware of the signs and symptoms stated above. Contact your doctor when experiencing such symptoms. Morphine Injection with food, drink and alcohol You should not drink alcohol whilst being given Morphine Injection, as it will increase its effects. Pregnancy and breast-feeding Do not take Morphine Injection if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant unless you have discussed this with your prescriber and the benefits of treatment are considered to outweigh the potential harm to the baby. If you use Morphine Injection during pregnancy, your baby may become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms after the birth which may need to be treated. Do not take Morphine Injection while you are breastfeeding as morphine sulfate passes into breast milk and will affect your baby. Driving and using machines If the injection makes you feel drowsy, do not drive or operate machinery. This medicine can affect your ability to drive. Do not drive whilst taking this medicine until you know how this medicine affects you. It may be an offence to drive if your ability to drive safely is affected. There is further information for patients who are intending to drive in Great Britain – go to http://www.gov.uk/drug-driving-law Morphine Injection contains sodium metabisulfite Sodium metabisulfite may rarely cause severe hypersensitivity reactions and bronchospasm. 3. How Morphine Injection should be given The recommended adult dose for relief of pain by subcutaneous injection (an injection underneath the skin) or intramuscular injection (an injection into a muscle) is 10mg every four hours, if necessary. However, this can vary between 5mg and 20mg depending on your size and response to the drug. For severe pain your doctor may give you a slow intravenous injection (an injection given slowly into a vein). The usual dose is quarter to half of the intramuscular dose.

  • If you are elderly, severely run down including feeling weak and feeble, or have liver and kidney problems the dose will be lower. You may also be given a reduced dose if you suffer from any of the conditions listed in section 2 entitled "Talk to your doctor before Morphine Injection is given to you if you:" and ''Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms when Morphine Injection is given to you:''
  • Your doctor will decide the dose that is best for you. If you do not understand what you are being given, or are in any doubt, ask your doctor or nurse. Before starting treatment and regularly during treatment, your doctor will discuss with you what you may expect from using Morphine Injection, when and how long it will be given, when to contact your doctor, and when it needs to be stopped (see also, If treatment with Morphine Injection is stopped, in this section). If you are given more Morphine Injection than you should be People who have taken an overdose may get pneumonia from inhaling vomit or foreign matter, symptoms may include breathlessness, cough and fever. People who have taken an overdose may also have breathing difficulties leading to unconsciousness or even death. If you miss a dose of Morphine Injection If you think that an injection has been missed, speak to your doctor or nurse. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If treatment with Morphine Injection is stopped Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. If you want to stop taking this medicine, discuss this with your prescriber first. They will tell you how to do this, usually by reducing the dose gradually so that any unpleasant withdrawal effects are kept to a minimum. Withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, agitation, anxiety, feeling your heartbeat (palpitations), increased blood pressure, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, shaking, shivering or sweating may occur if you suddenly stop taking this medicine. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or nurse.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Stop using Morphine Injection and seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms: Severe skin reaction with blistering, widespread scaly skin, pus-filled spots together with fever. This could be a condition called Acute Generalised Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP). Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience the following serious side effect:

  • A severe allergic reaction, such as dizziness, breathing difficulties, shock or low blood pressure. If you suffer such a reaction, you should not be given any more morphine. Your doctor will decide on the appropriate treatment for allergic reactions. Difficulty in breathing and physical and psychological dependence are possible serious side effects. It is possible that you could become dependent on morphine (for symptoms see section 3: If treatment with Morphine Injection is stopped). Common: may affect up to 1 in 10 people
  • drowsiness
  • feeling sick or being sick
  • constipation
  • dizziness. Apart from constipation, these side effects tend to disappear with time. Other side effects
  • sweating
  • feeling faint on standing up
  • small pupils (in the eye)
  • blurred vision
  • double vision or other changes in vision
  • mental clouding or confusion
  • mood changes, feeling extremely happy for no particular reason, or a feeling of emotional and mental unease (dysphoria)
  • imagining things (hallucinations)
  • headache
  • vertigo
  • facial flushing
  • dry mouth
  • difficulty or pain in passing urine
  • passing less urine than usual
  • biliary spasm (causing pain in the right side of your abdomen, particularly after eating a meal, which may spread towards your right shoulder)
  • palpitations (being aware of your heart beat)
  • slower or faster pulse
  • skin rash
  • wheals (lumpy, red rash) or itching
  • red, itchy, scaly skin at the injection site
  • pain and irritation at the injection site
  • reduced sexual drive or impotence after long term use
  • muscle twitching
  • an increased sensitivity to pain
  • unknown frequency: dependence and addiction (see section "How do I know if I am addicted?")
  • sleep apnoea (breathing pauses during sleep)
  • symptoms associated with inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) and the biliary tract system, e.g. severe upper abdominal pain possibly radiating to the back, nausea, vomiting or fever. Drug Withdrawal When you stop taking Morphine Injection, you may experience drug withdrawal symptoms, which include restlessness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, agitation, anxiety, feeling your heartbeat (palpitations), increased blood pressure, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, shaking, shivering or sweating. How do I know if I am addicted? If you notice any of the following signs whilst taking Morphine Injection, it could be a sign that you have become addicted.
  • you need to take the medicine for longer than advised by your prescriber
  • you feel you need to use more than the recommended dose
  • you are using the medicine for reasons other than prescribed
  • when you stop taking the medicine you feel unwell, and you feel better once taking the medicine again. If you notice any of these signs, it is important you talk to your prescriber. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

Morphine Injection Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Store below 25°C. Keep the ampoule in its outer carton, in order to protect it from light. Do not use this medicine if you notice signs of discolouration. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date, which is stated on the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Morphine Injection contains The active substance is morphine sulfate. The injection is available in three strengths, 10mg/ml (10mg of active ingredient in 1ml of solution), 15mg/ml (15mg of active ingredient in 1ml of solution) and 30mg/ml (30mg of active ingredient in 1ml of solution). The other ingredients are water for injections, sodium metabisulfite (E223), hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide. What Morphine Injection looks like and contents of the pack Morphine Injection is a colourless or almost colourless solution, practically free from particles. Morphine Sulfate 10mg/ml Solution for Injection is available in cartons containing 5 × 1ml glass ampoules and 10 × 1ml glass ampoules. Morphine Sulfate 15mg/ml Solution for Injection is available in cartons containing 5 × 1ml glass ampoules and 10 × 1ml glass ampoules. Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection is available in cartons containing 5 × 1ml glass ampoules and 10 × 1ml glass ampoules. It is also available in cartons containing 5 x 2ml ampoules. Not all strengths and pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Wockhardt UK Ltd, Ash Road North, Wrexham, LL13 9UF, UK Manufacturer: CP Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Ash Road North, Wrexham, LL13 9UF, UK. Other sources of information: To listen to or request a copy of this leaflet in Braille, large print or audio please call, free of charge: 0800 198 5000 (UK Only) Please be ready to give the following information:

(see section 4.4). Duration of treatment Morphine Sulfate should not be used longer than necessary. 4.3 Contraindications Acute respiratory depression, known morphine sensitivity, biliary colic (see also biliary tract disorders 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions), acute alcoholism. Conditions in which intracranial pressure is raised, comatose patients, head injuries, as there is an increased risk of respiratory depression that may lead to elevation of CSF pressure. The sedation and pupillary changes produced may interfere with accurate monitoring of the patient. Morphine is also contraindicated where there is a risk of paralytic ileus, or in acute diarrhoeal conditions associated with antibioticinduced pseudomembranous colitis or diarrhoea caused by poisoning (until the toxic material has been eliminated). Phaeochromocytoma (due to the risk of pressor response to histamine release). 6.1 List of excipients Water for injections Sodium metabisulfite (E223) Sodium hydroxide Hydrochloric acid

6.2 Incompatibilities Morphine salts are sensitive to changes in pH and morphine is liable to be precipitated out of solution in an alkaline environment. Compounds incompatible with morphine salts include aminophylline and sodium salts of barbiturates and phenytoin. Other incompatibilities (sometimes attributed to particular formulations) have included aciclovir sodium, doxorubicin, fluorouracil, furosemide, heparin sodium, pethidine hydrochloride, promethazine hydrochloride and tetracyclines. Specialised references should be consulted for specific compatibility information. Physicochemical incompatibility (formation of precipitates) has been demonstrated between solutions of morphine sulfate and 5- fluorouracil. 6.3 Shelf life 36 months 6.4 Special precautions for storage Do not store above 25°C. Keep container in the outer carton. 6.6 Special precautions for disposal None

Customer

Wockhardt UK Limited

Product Name Reference Number Morphine Sulfate 10mg/ml 29831/0146 Solution for Injection Morphine Sulfate 15mg/ml 29831/0145 Solution for Injection Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml 29831/0147 Solution for Injection This is a service provided by the Royal National Institute of Blind People. This leaflet was last revised in 09/2023.

106963/6

106963/6

PRINTING COLOURS

Description

Morphine sulfate injection leaflet

Item Code

106963/6

Profile

as supplied

Size

460 x 150mm

Min.Point Size

Other

Market

UK

DATE

Warning! We cannot accept responsibility for any errors in this proof after approval. Whilst we take extreme care at all times to ensure accuracy to our client's brief, the final responsibility must be taken by our client. IF YOU SIGN THIS PROOF YOU ARE SIGNIFYING FULL APPROVAL OF DESIGN AND TEXT.

Actual Min Point Size 5.5pt

Language

English

Standard

Pharma Height

7mm Minimum

315

Barcode Proof By

KJA

Proof No.

2

Date

16.10.2023

Keyline (Non-Printing) Text Free Area (Non-Printing)

16 East Park Road | Leicester | LE5 4QA | UK

APPROVAL SIGNATURE

Black

TECHNICAL COLOURS

Body Text Fonts: Pragmatica Condensed

Frequently asked questions about Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection

How do I take Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection?

Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection comes as injection containing 30mg/ml. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection?

The active substance in Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection is morphine sulfate.

Are there equivalent medicines to Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Morphine sulfate 30 mg/ml solution for injection. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Morphine sulfate (45 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

The symptomatic relief of severe pain; relief of dyspnoea of left ventricular failure and pulmonary oedema; pre-operative use.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Morphine Sulfate may be given by the subcutaneous, intramuscular or intravenous route. The subcutaneous route is not suitable for oedematous patients. The dosage should be based on the severity of the pain and the response and tolerance of the individual patient. The epidural or intrathecal routes must not be used as the product contains a preservative.

Prior to starting treatment with opioids, a discussion should be held with patients to put in place a strategy for ending treatment with morphine sulphate in order to minimise the risk of addiction and drug withdrawal syndrome (see section 4.4).

Adults:

Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection:

10mg every four hours if necessary (the dose may vary from 5-20mg depending on the individual patient).

Slow intravenous injection (2mg/minute):

Quarter to half of corresponding intramuscular dose not more than four hourly.

Elderly and debilitated patients: The dose should be reduced because of the depressant effect on respiration. Caution is required.

Children: Use in children is not recommended.

Hepatic impairment:

A reduction in dosage should be considered in hepatic impairment.

Renal impairment:

The dosage should be reduced in moderate to severe renal impairment.

For concomitant illnesses/conditions where dose reduction may be appropriate see 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use.

Treatment goals and discontinuation

Before initiating treatment with Morphine Sulfate, a treatment strategy including treatment duration and treatment goals, and a plan for end of the treatment, should be agreed together with the patient, in accordance with pain management guidelines. During treatment, there should be frequent contact between the physician and the patient to evaluate the need for continued treatment, consider discontinuation and to adjust dosages if needed. When a patient no longer requires therapy with Morphine Sulfate, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal. In absence of adequate pain control, the possibility of hyperalgesia, tolerance and progression of underlying disease should be considered (see section 4.4).

Duration of treatment

Morphine Sulfate should not be used longer than necessary.

4.3. Contraindications

Acute respiratory depression, known morphine sensitivity, biliary colic (see also biliary tract disorders 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions), acute alcoholism. Conditions in which intracranial pressure is raised, comatose patients, head injuries, as there is an increased risk of respiratory depression that may lead to elevation of CSF pressure. The sedation and pupillary changes produced may interfere with accurate monitoring of the patient. Morphine is also contraindicated where there is a risk of paralytic ileus, or in acute diarrhoeal conditions associated with antibiotic-induced pseudomembranous colitis or diarrhoea caused by poisoning (until the toxic material has been eliminated).

Phaeochromocytoma (due to the risk of pressor response to histamine release).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Morphine should be given in reduced doses or with caution to patients with asthma or decreased respiratory reserve (including cor pulmonale, kyphoscoliosis, emphysema, severe obesity). Avoid use during an acute asthma attack (see 4.3 Contraindications). Opioid analgesics in general should be given with caution or in reduced doses to patients with hypothyroidism, adrenocortical insufficiency, prostatic hypertrophy, urethral stricture, hypotension, shock, inflammatory or obstructive bowel disorders, or convulsive disorders.

Opioids such as morphine should either be avoided in patients with biliary disorders or they should be given with an antispasmodic.

Hepatobiliary disorders

Morphine may cause dysfunction and spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, thus raising intrabiliary pressure and increasing the risk of biliary tract symptoms and pancreatitis. Therefore in patients with biliary tract disorders morphine may exacerbate pain (use in biliary colic is a contraindication, see 4.3). In patients given morphine after cholecystectomy, biliary pain has been induced.

Caution is advised when giving morphine to patients with impaired liver function due to its hepatic metabolism (see 4.2 Posology).

Severe and prolonged respiratory depression has occurred in patients with renal impairment who have been given morphine (see 4.2 Posology).

Dosage should be reduced in elderly and debilitated patients (see 4.2 Posology).

Palliative care - in the control of pain in terminal illness, these conditions should not necessarily be a deterrent to use.

Acute chest syndrome (ACS) in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD)

Due to a possible association between ACS and morphine use in SCD patients treated with morphine during a vaso-occlusive crisis, close monitoring for ACS symptoms is warranted.

Adrenal insufficiency

Opioid analgesics may cause reversible adrenal insufficiency requiring monitoring and glucocorticoid replacement therapy. Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency may include e.g. nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or low blood pressure.

Decreased Sex Hormones and increased prolactin

Long-term use of opioid analgesics may be associated with decreased sex hormone levels and increased prolactin. Symptoms include decreased libido, impotence or amenorrhea.

Hyperalgesia that does not respond to a further dose increase of morphine may occur in particular in high doses. A morphine dose reduction or change in opioid may be required.

Risk from concomitant use of sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs:

Concomitant use of morphine sulfate and sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs may result in sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Because of these risks, concomitant prescribing with these sedative medicines should be reserved for patients for whom alternative treatment options are not possible. If a decision is made to prescribe morphine sulfate concomitantly with sedative medicines, the lowest effective dose should be used, and the duration of treatment should be as short as possible.

The patients should be followed closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. In this respect, it is strongly recommended to inform patients and their caregivers to be aware of these symptoms (see section 4.5).

Plasma concentrations of morphine may be reduced by rifampicin. The analgesic effect of morphine should be monitored and doses of morphine adjusted during and after treatment with rifampicin.

Opioid Use Disorder (abuse and dependence)

Tolerance and physical and/or psychological dependence may develop upon repeated administration of opioids such as Morphine Sulfate.

Repeated use of Morphine Sulfate can lead to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). A higher dose and longer duration of opioid treatment, can increase the risk of developing OUD. Abuse or intentional misuse of Morphine Sulfate may result in overdose and/or death. The risk of developing OUD is increased in patients with a personal or a family history (parents or siblings) of substance use disorders (including alcohol use disorder), in current tobacco users or in patients with a personal history of other mental health disorders (e.g. major depression, anxiety and personality disorders).

Before initiating treatment with Morphine Sulfate and during the treatment, treatment goals and a discontinuation plan should be agreed with the patient (see section 4.2). Before and during treatment the patient should also be informed about the risks and signs of OUD. If these signs occur, patients should be advised to contact their physician.

Patients will require monitoring for signs of drug-seeking behaviour (e.g. too early requests for refills). This includes the review of concomitant opioids and psycho-active drugs (like benzodiazepines). For patients with signs and symptoms of OUD, consultation with an addiction specialist should be considered.

A comprehensive patient history should be taken to document concomitant medications, including over-the- counter medicines and medicines obtained on-line, and past and present medical and psychiatric conditions.

Patients may find that treatment is less effective with chronic use and express a need to increase the dose to obtain the same level of pain control as initially experienced. Patients may also supplement their treatment with additional pain relievers. These could be signs that the patient is developing tolerance. The risks of developing tolerance should be explained to the patient.

It is important that patients only use medicines that are prescribed for them at the dose they have been prescribed and do not give this medicine to anyone else.

Patients should be closely monitored for signs of misuse, abuse, or addiction.

The clinical need for analgesic treatment should be reviewed regularly.

Drug withdrawal syndrome

Prior to starting treatment with any opioids, a discussion should be held with patients to put in place a withdrawal strategy for ending treatment with morphine sulfate.

Drug withdrawal syndrome may occur upon abrupt cessation of therapy or dose reduction. When a patient no longer requires therapy, it is advisable to taper the dose gradually to minimise symptoms of withdrawal. Tapering from a high dose may take weeks to months.

The opioid drug withdrawal syndrome is characterised by some or all of the following: restlessness, lacrimation, rhinorrhoea, yawning, perspiration, chills, myalgia, mydriasis and palpitations. Other symptoms may also develop including irritability, agitation, anxiety, hyperkinesia, tremor, weakness, insomnia, anorexia, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased blood pressure, increased respiratory rate or heart rate.

If women take this drug during pregnancy, there is a risk that their newborn infants will experience neonatal withdrawal syndrome.

Hyperalgesia

Hyperalgesia may be diagnosed if the patient on long-term opioid therapy presents with increased pain.

This might be qualitatively and anatomically distinct from pain related to disease progression or to breakthrough pain resulting from development of opioid tolerance. Pain associated with hyperalgesia tends to be more diffuse than the pre-existing pain and less defined in quality. Symptoms of hyperalgesia may resolve with a reduction of opioid dose.

Oral P2Y12 inhibitor antiplatelet therapy

Within the first day of concomitant P2Y12 inhibitor and morphine treatment, reduced efficacy of P2Y12 inhibitor treatment has been observed (see section 4.5).

Sleep-related breathing disorders

Opioids can cause sleep-related breathing disorders including central sleep apnoea (CSA) and sleep-related hypoxemia. Opioid use increases the risk of CSA in a dose-dependent fashion. In patients who present with CSA, consider decreasing the total opioid dosage.

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs)

Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), which can be life-threatening or fatal, has been reported in association with morphine treatment. Most of these reactions occurred within the first 10 days of treatment. Patients should be informed about the signs and symptoms of AGEP and advised to seek medical care if they experience such symptoms.

If signs and symptoms suggestive of these skin reactions appear, morphine should be withdrawn and an alternative treatment considered.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Alcohol: enhanced sedative and hypotensive effects.

Anti-arrhythmics: There may be delayed absorption of mexiletine.

Antibacterials: The opioid analgesic papaveretum has been shown to reduce plasma ciprofloxacin concentration. The manufacturer of ciprofloxacin advises that premedication with opioid analgesics be avoided.

Antidepressants, anxiolytics, hypnotics: Severe CNS excitation or depression (hypertension or hypotension) has been reported with the concurrent use of pethidine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) including selegiline, moclobemide and linezolid. As it is possible that a similar interaction may occur with other opioid analgesics, morphine should be used with caution and consideration given to a reduction in dosage in patients receiving MAOIs.

Morphine should be used with caution in patients who are concurrently receiving other central nervous system depressants including sedatives or hypnotics, general anaesthetics, phenothiazines, other tranquilisers, muscle relaxants, antihypertensives, gabapentin or pregabalin and alcohol. Interactive effects resulting in respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result if these drugs are taken in combination with the usual doses of morphine.

Antipsychotics: possible enhanced sedative and hypotensive effect.

Antidiarrhoeal and antiperistaltic agents (such as loperamide and kaolin): concurrent use may increase the risk of severe constipation.

Antimuscarinics: agents such as atropine antagonise morphine-induced respiratory depression and can partially reverse biliary spasm but are additive to the gastrointestinal and urinary tract effects. Consequently, severe constipation and urinary retention may occur during intensive antimuscarinic-analgesic therapy.

Metoclopramide and domperidone: There may be antagonism of the gastrointestinal effects of metoclopramide and domperidone.

Oral P2Y12 inhibitor antiplatelet therapy: A delayed and decreased exposure to oral P2Y12 inhibitor antiplatelet therapy has been observed in patients with acute coronary syndrome treated with morphine. This interaction may be related to reduced gastrointestinal motility and apply to other opioids. The clinical relevance is unknown, but data indicate the potential for reduced P2Y12 inhibitor efficacy in patients co-administered morphine and a P2Y12 inhibitor (see section 4.4). In patients with acute coronary syndrome, in whom morphine cannot be withheld and fast P2Y12 inhibition is deemed crucial, the use of a parenteral P2Y12 inhibitor may be considered.

Sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs:

The concomitant use of opioids with sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs increases the risk of sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death because of additive CNS depressant effect. The dose and duration of concomitant use should be limited (see section 4.4).

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Regular use during pregnancy may cause drug dependence in the foetus, leading to withdrawal symptoms in the neonate.

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.

Administration during labour may depress respiration in the neonate and an antidote for the child should be readily available.

Breast feeding

Administration to nursing women is not recommended as morphine sulphate may be secreted in breast milk and may cause respiratory depression in the infant.

Fertility

Animal studies have shown that morphine may reduce fertility (see 5.3. preclinical safety data).

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Morphine causes drowsiness so patients should avoid driving or operating machinery.

This medicine can impair cognitive function and can affect a patient's ability to drive safely. This class of medicine is in the list of drugs included in regulations under 5a of the Road of Traffic Act 1988. When prescribing this medicine, patients should be told:

• The medicine is likely to affect your ability to drive

• Do not drive until you know how the medicine affects you

• It is an offence to drive while under the influence of this medicine.

• However, you would not be committing an offence (called 'statutory defence') if:

o The medicine has been prescribed to treat a medical or dental problem and

o You have taken it according to the instructions given by the prescriber and in the information provided with the medicine and

o It was not affecting your ability to drive safely

4.8. Undesirable effects

The most serious hazard of therapy is respiratory depression (see also 4.9 Overdose).

The commonest side-effects of morphine are nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness and dizziness. Tolerance generally develops with long term use, but not to constipation.

Other side effects include the following:

Anaphylaxis: Anaphylactic reactions following intravenous injection have been reported rarely.

Cardiovascular: facial flushing bradycardia, palpitations, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension.

Central Nervous System: myoclonus, mental clouding, confusion (with large doses), hallucinations, headache, vertigo, mood changes including dysphoria and euphoria.

Unknown: allodynia, hyperalgesia (see section 4.4)

Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth, biliary spasm.

Frequency not known: Pancreatitis

Hepatobiliary disorders:

Frequency not known: Spasm of sphincter of Oddi

Disorders of the eye: blurred or double vision or other changes in vision, miosis.

Immune system disorders:

Unknown: anaphylactoid reactions

Psychiatric disorders

Unknown: drug dependence (see section 4.4)

Respiratory disorders:

Frequency not known: Central sleep apnoea syndrome

General disorders and administration site conditions

Uncommon: drug withdrawal syndrome

Sexual dysfunction: long term use may lead to a reversible decrease in libido or potency.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pruritus, urticaria, rash, sweating. Contact dermatitis has been reported and pain and irritation may occur on injection.

Frequency not known: Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP)

Urinary: difficulty with micturition, ureteric spasm, urinary retention, antidiuretic effect. Tolerance develops to the effects of opioids on the bladder.

Drug dependence and withdrawal (abstinence) syndrome

Use of opioid analgesics may be associated with the development of physical and/or psychological dependence or tolerance. Repeated use of Morphine Sulfate can lead to drug dependence, even at therapeutic doses. The risk of drug dependence may vary depending on a patient's individual risk factors, dosage, and duration of opioid treatment (see section 4.4). An abstinence syndrome may be precipitated when opioid administration is suddenly discontinued or opioid antagonists administered, or can sometimes be experienced between doses. For management, see 4.4.

Physiological withdrawal symptoms include: Body aches, tremors, restless legs syndrome, diarrhoea, abdominal colic, nausea, flu-like symptoms, tachycardia and mydriasis. Psychological symptoms include dysphoric mood, anxiety and irritability. In drug dependence, “drug craving” is often involved.

The euphoric activity of morphine has led to its abuse.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions after authorization of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Cars Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Patients should be informed of the signs and symptoms of overdose and to ensure that family and friends are also aware of these signs and to seek immediate medical help if they occur.

Toxic doses vary considerably with the individual, and regular users may tolerate large doses.

The triad of respiratory depression, coma and constricted pupils is considered indicative of opioid overdosage with dilatation of the pupils occurring as hypoxia develops. Death may occur from respiratory failure

Other opioid overdose symptoms include hypothermia, pneumonia aspiration, confusion, severe dizziness, severe drowsiness, hypotension, bradycardia, circulatory failure pulmonary oedema, severe nervousness or restlessness, hallucinations, convulsions (especially in infants and children). Rhabdomyolysis, progressing to renal failure, has been reported in overdosage.

Treatment: The medical management of overdose involves prompt administration of the specific opioid antagonist naloxone if coma or bradypnoea are present using one of the recommended dosage regimens. Both respiratory and cardiovascular support should be given where necessary.

💬 Ask about this leaflet

Ask anything about Morphine Sulfate 30mg/ml Solution for Injection. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

Pharmacies in major towns and cities — see the list
Pharmacies by county and region — see the full list

Browse all 2,009 towns and cities →