What is morphine?
What is morphine?
Morphine is one of the best-known painkillers in the world and a central component of modern pain therapy. It belongs to the opioid group and is obtained from the dried milk of the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). Since its discovery in the early 19th century, morphine has revolutionised medicine, particularly in the treatment of severe and chronic pain.
Its main effect is to block pain receptors in the central nervous system, thereby reducing not only the pain itself but also the sensation of pain. Thanks to this property, morphine is used primarily in the treatment of cancer patients, in palliative medicine and after serious operations.
But as effective as morphine is, it also comes with challenges: side effects, potential addiction and the need for careful dosing make responsible use essential. In this overview, we take a closer look at the effects, side effects, uses and history of morphine to better understand this versatile drug.
How the painkiller works in the body
Morphine effect
The effect of morphine is based on its ability to specifically influence pain processing in the central nervous system. Morphine binds to so-called opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, in particular to the μ-receptors. These receptors play a crucial role in the transmission and perception of pain. The binding of morphine to these receptors inhibits pain transmission, which can significantly alleviate or completely block pain.
In addition to pain relief, morphine has other effects that make it so effective - but also challenging to use. For example, it influences the release of certain neurotransmitters, which can lead to a state of deep relaxation. For this reason, morphine is not only used for acute pain, but also for chronic pain and in palliative care, where it helps patients to achieve a better quality of life.
However, it is important to note that morphine does not only act on pain receptors. It can also cause side effects such as a slowing of breathing, fatigue or a dampening effect on the gastrointestinal tract. These versatile effects make morphine a powerful drug, but also one that must be handled responsibly.
Morphine side effects: What are the risks
Morphine is an effective painkiller, but it also has side effects that must be carefully monitored. The following effects occur frequently:
- Nausea and vomiting: Especially at the beginning of the intake or at higher doses.
- Constipation: One of the most common side effects, as morphine inhibits bowel movements.
- Drowsiness and fatigue: Many patients feel relaxed, sometimes even drowsy.
- Respiratory depression: Particularly dangerous in the case of overdose, as breathing is slowed down.
- Itching: Some patients experience an unpleasant tingling sensation or skin irritation.
- Dependence and tolerance: Long-term use can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
The side effects illustrate the importance of professional use and monitoring by doctors in order to minimise risks.
Simple and versatile pain therapy:
Morphine tablets
Morphine tablets are one of the most commonly used dosage forms of the active ingredient. They are particularly suitable for patients who require regular and controlled dosing. There are two main variants: fast-release tablets for acute pain and prolonged-release tablets, which release the active ingredient slowly over many hours.
The prolonged-release tablets are ideal for patients with chronic pain, as they provide consistent pain relief. At the same time, taking them requires discipline, as an overdose can have serious consequences.
Morphine plasters: Gentle pain relief through the skin
Morphine patches offer a convenient alternative to oral administration. They release the active ingredient continuously through the skin into the bloodstream, resulting in consistent pain relief. Patches are particularly popular in long-term and palliative care, as they make everyday life easier for patients.
One advantage of morphine patches is that they need to be changed less frequently - usually every few days is sufficient. This form is ideal for people who have difficulty taking tablets or require a stable release of the active ingredient.
How does morphine work intravenously?
Intravenous administration of morphine is a particularly effective method of quickly and specifically relieving severe pain. The drug is injected directly into the bloodstream, allowing it to take effect without delay. This rapid effect is particularly important in emergency situations, after serious operations or in cases of acute pain.
By being absorbed directly into the bloodstream, morphine immediately reaches the opioid receptors in the central nervous system, where it blocks the pain signals. This not only leads to rapid pain relief, but also to a general calming effect, which is often perceived as beneficial. Intravenous morphine is often used in hospitals or during medically supervised pain therapies, as this method requires precise dosing and monitoring.
A major advantage of this form of administration is its flexibility: the dose can be individually adjusted and increased within a few minutes if necessary. This is particularly important for patients who are dependent on continuous adjustment of pain therapy. At the same time, intravenous use also harbours risks. Too high a dose can lead to respiratory depression, and side effects such as nausea, drowsiness or itching can be more intense.
For this reason, intravenous morphine is usually only administered under strict medical supervision. In addition to short-term use, this method can also serve as a temporary solution until patients can be switched to oral medication or other forms such as patches. Intravenous administration is therefore an essential option in pain management, offering invaluable benefits, especially in acute cases.
Morphine in the dying phase
Morphine plays a central role in the dying phase to relieve patients of severe pain and enable them to end their lives as peacefully and with as much dignity as possible. It is used specifically to relieve pain, shortness of breath and restlessness, with the dosage being individually adjusted to minimise both physical and psychological stress. It is important that morphine is used under medical supervision, as side effects such as sedation or a change in breathing rate must be carefully monitored. Used correctly, morphine helps to significantly improve the quality of life in the last hours and days.
Further contributions to opiades
Use this text to share information about your brand with your customers, describe a product, share announcements, or welcome customers to your store.