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Morphine

Brand names: MS Contin, Kadian

Morphine is a strong opioid for severe pain. It can be habit-forming and dangerous in overdose.

Brand namesMS Contin, Kadian
Type of medicineOpioid pain medicine
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's a controlled substance. Extended-release forms are for long-lasting severe pain only.

What it's used for

  • Severe pain when other medicines aren't enough
  • Pain at the end of life

How to take it

  • Take it exactly as prescribed.
  • Swallow extended-release tablets whole. Crushing or chewing can release a deadly dose.
  • Keep naloxone (Narcan) at home and show family where it is. It can reverse an opioid overdose.
  • Keep it locked up and dispose of leftovers at a take-back site.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Sleepiness
  • Itching
Call 911Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing, blue lips, or can't be woken up
Call 911Extreme sleepiness, confusion, or pinpoint pupils

Warnings

  • Boxed warnings: addiction and misuse, slowed breathing, accidental swallowing by children, and withdrawal in newborns.
  • Doses are adjusted for kidney disease.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Taking it with alcohol, benzodiazepines (like alprazolam or lorazepam), sleep medicines, gabapentin, or other opioids can slow breathing and cause death.
  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Long-term use in pregnancy can cause withdrawal in the newborn.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.