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WARNING:
This form of morphine is specially made to provide long- acting
relief of moderate-to-severe chronic pain. It is recommended to
only be taken once a day. This medication should be swallowed
whole (see How To Use section for more details). Do not crush,
chew, or dissolve the contents of this medication. Doing so may
cause severe, or in rare cases, fatal overdoses of morphine.
Consult your pharmacist for details.
USES:
Morphine extended-release is used for the long-term treatment of
pain (chronic pain). It is specially made to release doses of
morphine continuously throughout the day. Therefore, it only needs
to be taken once daily. Since it helps relieve pain and also can
cause drowsiness, it will help you sleep. Relief of chronic pain
is important in order to improve your quality of life. This form
of morphine is not recommended for short-term (acute) or "as
needed" pain relief. Your doctor may prescribe another type of
short-acting (immediate release) pain medicine for acute or
breakthrough pain.
HOW TO USE:
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily without regard
to food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on
your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not crush,
chew, or dissolve the capsules. Swallow the capsule(s) whole. If
you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule
may be opened and the contents sprinkled into applesauce and taken
as directed. Do not chew the food/medication mixture or make-up a
supply in advance.
Doing so may result in serious, even fatal, overdose. Use this
medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take
it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than
prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. The maximum
daily dose of this medication is 1,600 mg. Using more than this
amount can result in serious kidney problems (due to buildup of
fumaric acid, which is contained in this medicine).
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly
stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. When used
for an extended period this medication may not work as well and
may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this
medication stops working well.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, headache, diarrhea, or
constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen,
notify your doctor promptly. Promptly tell your doctor if any of
these side effects occur: itching, sweating/flushing, red eyes,
change in sexual interest or function. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: trouble
breathing or shallow breathing, vision problems, dizziness,
lightheadedness or fainting, swelling of the arms/legs.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious
side effects occur: mental/mood changes, stomach/abdominal pain,
back pain, trouble urinating (e.g., pain, inability to urinate),
decreased appetite, tingling or numbness of the hands/feet. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very
serious side effects occur: unusually fast or slow heartbeat,
unusual fatigue/weakness, easy bleeding or bruising, weight loss,
seizures. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
This medication is not recommended for use if you have the
following medical conditions: acute or severe bronchial asthma,
other lung/breathing problems (e.g., COPD, respiratory
depression), certain intestinal disorders (e.g., paralytic ileus).
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver
problems, kidney problems, heart failure, low blood pressure,
stomach/intestinal disorders (e.g., spasms), pancreatitis, head
injuries (including intracranial lesions or pressure), certain
glandular conditions (e.g., Addison's disease, hypothyroidism),
prostate problems (e.g., BPH), depression, alcohol or drug abuse,
seizure disorders, dehydration, any allergies (especially to other
opiates such as codeine or hydromorphone).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in
activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. To minimize dizziness and
lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying
position. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly
because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during
pregnancy but is not recommended for use immediately prior to, or
during labor. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication pass
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