Mst Continus (Morphine)

• Mst Continus (morphine) is employed in the management of pain conditions that require strong opioid therapy.
• Acute postoperative pain: provides effective relief after surgical procedures.
• Cancer‑related pain: controls severe pain associated with malignant disease.
• Chronic non‑cancer pain: offers long‑term analgesia when other treatments are insufficient.

• Morphine acts as a full agonist at mu‑opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Binding to these G‑protein‑coupled receptors inhibits adenylate cyclase activity, reduces calcium influx, and increases potassium efflux, leading to decreased neuronal excitability and diminished transmission of nociceptive signals, thereby producing analgesia.

Morphine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to life‑threatening.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Sweating

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Respiratory depression
• Severe hypotension
• Allergic reactions (rash, pruritus, anaphylaxis)
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Seizures
• Opioid‑induced neurotoxicity

• When prescribing or dispensing morphine, consider the following safety measures.
• Assess pain severity and treatment goals: tailor therapy to individual needs.
• Monitor respiratory function: watch for signs of depression, especially after dose changes.
• Adjust dose in renal or hepatic impairment: reduced clearance may increase toxicity.
• Avoid concurrent CNS depressants: limit additive sedation or respiratory effects.
• Use caution in elderly patients: increased sensitivity to opioid effects.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Morphine interacts with several drug classes; awareness helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Other opioids or strong CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates): risk of profound respiratory depression.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): can precipitate severe hypertension or serotonin syndrome.
• Respiratory stimulants withdrawn abruptly: may cause rebound respiratory depression.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Anticholinergic agents: may worsen constipation.

• Diuretics: can enhance orthostatic hypotension.
• Antihistamines: may increase sedation.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): monitor for serotonin syndrome signs.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): may increase morphine plasma levels.