The Effects of Morphine Sulfate:
Morphine sulfate is a µ-opioid receptor agonist that relieves pain. It produces analgesia by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system.
Indications for Use of Morphine:
Morphine is indicated for chest pain which is refractory to the use of nitroglycerin.
Morphine Precautions & Contraindications:
Opioids are known to depress the respiratory system and may lower blood pressure.
Consider using a reduced dose in older patients or in patients with an altered level of consciousness.
Adult Dosage for Morphine:
- May be given to patients in 2 to 4 mg increments via slow IV push
- Additional morphine given in doses of 2 to 8 mg may be given 5 to 15 minutes after the first dose, titrated to effect
- If signs of hypotension, hypoventilation, bradycardia, or any other serious central nervous system (CNS) depression symptoms appear, naloxone may be given .4 to 2 mg IV to reverse the opioid side effects. However, gastrointestinal upset may occur with higher doses