Morphine Addiction Signs, Symptoms & Drug Abuse Treatment

Among opioid drugs, morphine, codeine, fentanyl or buprenorphine are considered the most effective analgesics for application in post-operative and cancer pain. However, their chronic administration is associated with a high rate of drug abuse potential. Continue to read more about morphine addiction symptoms and treatment options.


What is Morphine?

Morphine is a classic opioid analgesic with which other painkillers are compared. Morphine is a highly beneficial pain medication when used appropriately. However, in some instances, this medication may be strongly contraindicated. Morphine is widely utilized off-label for almost any illness that causes pain. In the emergency department, morphine is provided for musculoskeletal pain, chest pain, abdominal pain, arthritis, and even headaches when individuals fail to respond to first and second-line treatments. Morphine is seldom used for procedural sedation. However, for minor procedures, physicians sometimes incorporate a low dose of morphine with a low dose of benzodiazepine-like lorazepam.

Due to morphine addiction in recent years, morphine drugs have added abuse-deterrent coding so they cannot be crushed, snorted, or injected. While this has reduced the addictive potential of prescribed morphine, it has not eliminated its risk. Above all, it has not impacted illicitly manufactured morphine.

Typical street or slang names for morphine are Monkey, Roxanne, and White. Morphine is a naturally occurring chemical that may be isolated from concentrated poppy straw or the opium poppy plant. Morphine’s chemical composition is comparable to heroin since it is extracted from the same plant.

Is Morphine Addictive?

Morphine is highly addictive. It is under Schedule 2 controlled substances in the United States, indicating its high potential for drug abuse and addiction.

Is morphine an opioid? Yes. As an opioid, morphine binds to brain opioid receptors and produces intense feelings of pleasure and pain relief. These effects can cause the development of physical and psychological dependence.

Repeated use of morphine can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses are required to gain the same level of pain relief or euphoria. This can increase the risk of addiction as individuals may escalate their dosage to maintain the desired effects. Abruptly stopping or reducing the dosage of morphine after prolonged use can result in morphine withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, nausea, and anxiety.

Morphine Addiction Symptoms

How addictive is morphine? Morphine addiction can manifest through various symptoms, which may include the following:

  • Increased tolerance: Over time, individuals may require higher doses of morphine to achieve the same level of pain relief or euphoria they initially experienced.
  • Dependence: Physical dependence on morphine can develop, resulting in withdrawal symptoms when the drug is reduced or discontinued. These symptoms may include muscle and bone pain, restlessness, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, and insomnia.
  • Compulsive drug-seeking behavior: Individuals may spend significant time and effort obtaining, using, and recovering from morphine. They may prioritize getting the drug over other aspects, such as hobbies, personal relationships, or work.
  • Loss of control: People with morphine addiction often struggle to control their drug use. They may take larger doses or use the drug more frequently than intended, even if it leads to negative consequences.
  • Neglecting responsibilities: Addiction can decrease work, school, or home performance. Individuals may neglect their duties and obligations to obtain and use morphine.
  • Social withdrawal: People with morphine addiction may isolate themselves from friends and family, avoiding social interactions and activities they once enjoyed.
  • Continued use despite negative consequences: Despite experiencing adverse effects on physical health, relationships, finances, or legal issues, individuals with morphine addiction may continue to use the drug.

Morphine Side Effects

Morphine, like any medication, can cause side effects. The severity and occurrence of these morphine side effects can vary from person to person.

Common side effects of morphine may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Constipation.
  • Drowsiness and sedation.
  • Dizziness and lightheadedness.
  • Confusion.
  • Itching and skin rash.
  • Urinary retention.
  • Mood changes.
  • Reduced blood pressure.

Morphine can suppress the respiratory system, leading to slower breathing rates. In high morphine doses or when combined with other drugs or substances that depress the respiratory system (such as alcohol or sedatives), it can be potentially life-threatening.

It’s crucial to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they can help manage them or adjust the morphine dosage if necessary. In some cases, the benefits of morphine in managing pain may outweigh the potential side effects.

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Morphine Drug Fact Sheet

Generic Name: [ MOR-feen ] Morphine (oral)
Brand Names: MS Contin, Kadian
Drug Class: Opioids (narcotic analgesics)

Morphine Sulfate

Morphine sulfate, like other forms of morphine, carries the risk of adverse effects and the chance for addiction and dependence. Regular monitoring and communication with a healthcare provider are crucial when using morphine sulfate to ensure proper pain management and minimize potential risks.

Morphine sulfate is a specific form of morphine used in medical settings for pain management. It is the salt form of morphine, where morphine is combined with sulfuric acid to create morphine sulfate.

Morphine sulfate is available in various formulations, including immediate-release, extended-release, oral, injectable, and intravenous (IV) formulations. The specific formulation and route of administration depend on the individual’s requirements and the severity of their pain.

Dilaudid vs Morphine

Is Dilaudid stronger than morphine? Dilaudid and morphine are opioid analgesics used to manage moderate to severe pain. While they belong to the same opioid drug class, they differ. Dilaudid, also known by its generic name hydromorphone, is generally considered more potent than morphine. A smaller dose of Dilaudid may provide comparable pain relief to a more considerable amount of morphine.

Morphine Withdrawal Symptoms

Morphine withdrawal symptoms can occur when a person abruptly stops or significantly reduces their use of morphine after prolonged or high-dose use. Common morphine withdrawal symptoms include the following:

  • Flu-like symptoms.
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances.
  • Anxiety and restlessness.
  • Insomnia.
  • Mood changes.
  • Dilated pupils.
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Muscle and joint pain.

Morphine withdrawal can be physically and emotionally uncomfortable, but it is typically not life-threatening. However, seeking medical guidance and support is strongly recommended when discontinuing morphine or opioid medication.

Healthcare professionals can provide appropriate strategies, support, and sometimes medications to manage withdrawal symptoms effectively. They may also recommend gradually tapering the drug to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

A morphine overdose can occur when an individual takes a higher dose of morphine than their body can handle or when morphine is combined with other substances that depress the (CNS) central nervous system, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines. An overdose can have severe consequences and can be life-threatening.

Download the below pdf file for more information about morphine. The Drug Enforcement Administration made this publicly available for download to help with opioid use disorder awareness.

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Morphine Statistics

Is morphine addicting? Yes. Opioid addiction, which includes morphine, has reached epidemic proportions in many countries. Opioid addiction, including morphine addiction, places a significant economic burden on individuals, families, healthcare systems, and society.

Furthermore, prescription opioid addiction can sometimes lead morphine addicts to turn to illicit drugs such as heroin when they can no longer avail of prescription opioid drugs.


80%

Around 80% of heroin users first misused prescription opioids.

Source: CDC

50,000

Approximately 50,000 deaths in 2019 were attributed to opioid-involved overdoses in the United States.

Source: CDC

1.6 Million

In 2019, around 1.6 million US citizens aged 12 or older had an addiction (substance use disorder) involving prescription pain relievers (including opioids like morphine).

Source: NCBI


Morphine addiction can have severe consequences, including physical and mental health issues, strained relationships, financial difficulties, and legal problems. Overdose is also a significant risk, as excessive morphine use can depress the central nervous system and lead to respiratory failure.
Morphine addiction can have severe consequences, including physical and mental health issues, strained relationships, financial difficulties, and legal problems. Overdose is also a significant risk, as excessive morphine use can depress the central nervous system and lead to respiratory failure.

Morphine vs Heroin

Heroin is more potent than morphine. When heroin enters the brain, it is rapidly converted into morphine, which binds to opioid receptors. The rapid conversion of heroin to morphine makes it more potent and results in a quicker onset of effects.

Unfortunately, it is common for individuals who misuse or become addicted to prescription opioids, such as morphine, to turn to heroin when they can no longer obtain or afford the prescription medication.

This phenomenon often occurs due to the similar effects of both substances and that heroin is typically cheaper and more readily available in illegal drug markets.

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Morphine Addiction Treatment

Morphine addiction is a severe condition that requires professional treatment and support. Treatment approaches for morphine addiction typically involve a combination of medical interventions, psychological therapies, and social support. Here are some standard components of morphine addiction treatment:

  • Detoxification.
    • The first step in treating morphine addiction is often detoxification, which involves safely managing the withdrawal symptoms as the body clears the drug. Morphine detox is typically done under medical supervision to ensure the individual’s safety and comfort.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
    • Medications like methadone or buprenorphine may be prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. These medications help reduce cravings, relieve withdrawal symptoms, and stabilize the individual’s opioid use disorder.
    • MAT is often combined with counseling and behavioral therapies for better outcomes.
  • Behavioral Therapies.
    • Different therapeutic approaches can be used to address the psychological aspects of addiction and help individuals develop coping mechanisms and skills to maintain sobriety.
    • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), contingency management, and 12-step facilitation are common therapeutic modalities used in morphine addiction treatment.
  • Support Groups.
    • Participation in 12-step support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be highly beneficial. These groups provide a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, receive encouragement, and learn from others who have faced similar challenges.
  • Individual Counseling.
    • One-on-one counseling sessions with a therapist or addiction counselor can help individuals address the underlying factors contributing to their addiction, develop personalized treatment plans, and work through emotional and psychological issues.
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment.
    • Many individuals with morphine addiction may also have co-occurring mental health disorders. Integrated treatment that addresses addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions is essential for comprehensive recovery.
  • Supportive Services.
    • Additional support services such as vocational training, housing assistance, and access to healthcare and social services can be crucial in helping individuals rebuild their lives and establish a stable and fulfilling future.

Treatment plans should be tailored to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, and counselors can provide guidance and support for successful morphine addiction treatment and long-term recovery.

If you or someone you’re concerned with is struggling with morphine addiction, the We Level Up addiction treatment center is ready to help. We offer complete levels of care in treating opioid abuse and detoxification. You can call us for free anytime for assessment. Each call is private and confidential.

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Top 3 Morphine Addiction FAQs

  1. Can you get addicted to morphine?

    Yes, morphine has a high potential for addiction. Regular use of morphine, especially in higher doses or over an extended period, can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Morphine addiction is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior, loss of control, and continued morphine use despite adverse consequences. It is essential to use morphine under the supervision of a healthcare professional and follow prescribed guidelines to minimize the risk of addiction. If morphine addiction does develop, seeking professional help is crucial for overcoming the addiction and achieving recovery.

  2. How addictive is morphine?

    Morphine is highly addictive. It is classified as a controlled Schedule 2 opioid drug due to its high potential for substance abuse and dependence. The drug activates opioid receptors in the brain, producing euphoria, pain relief, and relaxation. With repeated use, the brain and body can develop tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. Continued use of morphine can lead to physical and psychological dependence, making it challenging to stop using the drug without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Misuse or prolonged use of morphine can quickly progress to addiction, necessitating proper caution and medical supervision when using the medication.

  3. How long does it take to get addicted to morphine?

    The timeline for developing a morphine addiction can vary from person to person. Factors such as individual susceptibility, dosage, frequency of use, and method of administration can influence the speed at which addiction develops. However, morphine is a highly potent opioid with a significant potential for addiction. Even when used as doctors prescribe, there is a risk of developing dependence over time. With regular use, physical dependence can develop within a few weeks, and psychological dependence or addiction can develop over several weeks to months.

How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? How Long Do Opiates Stay in Urine, Blood, & Body?

Morphine is classified as an opiate, specifically an opioid analgesic. It is extracted from the opium poppy plant and is one of the classic and most widely used pain-relieving medications. Morphine acts on the (CNS) central nervous system to alleviate moderate to severe pain by binding to opioid receptors in the spinal cord, brain, and other body parts. It is commonly utilized in medical settings for pain management, such as after surgery or for patients with chronic pain.

Morphine has a high potential for addiction. It belongs to the opioid drug class known as opioids for their addictive properties. When used over an extended period, morphine can lead to physical and psychological dependence.

The prolonged use of morphine can cause changes in the brain’s chemistry, leading to tolerance, where higher dosages are needed to gain the same pain relief. This tolerance can contribute to dependence, where the body becomes accustomed to morphine and experiences withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped or reduced suddenly.
Watch the video below for more information about how long opiates, including morphine, stay in your system.

Watch the video below for more information about how long opiates, including morphine, stay in your system.

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How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? Video Transcript.

Welcome to the We Level Up treatment center video series. In today’s video, we will discuss How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? How Long Do Opiates Stay in Urine, Blood, & Body? Learn the Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, & Codeine Drug Testing Facts.

The length of time that opiates remain in your system varies depending on the type of opiate, the dosage, and the frequency of use. Generally, opiates can stay in your system for two to four days. However, heavier and chronic users may have residues for up to seven days.

Opiates can be detected in the blood test for up to 24 hours and the urine test for up to three days. Opiates can be detected in the hair follicles for up to 90 days. In chronic users, opiates can stay in the body for up to 30 days.

Opiates often have short half-lives, meaning their effects can linger for several hours even though they swiftly leave the body. However, Opioids can linger in a person’s bloodstream for several hours or days after the symptoms subside, depending on the substance used. Urine tests, one of the more common types of drug testing, can identify opioid usage for longer periods, often up to three to four days, and some tests can identify opioid use for up to three months.

Drugs in the opioid class are used to treat pain. Natural opioids, semi-synthetic opioids generated from natural opioids, and synthetic opioids produced in a lab are all referred to as opioids under the general term. A class of medications known as opioids contains opiates, which are organic byproducts of the poppy plant.

The main difference is that “opiate” refers to the substances derived from the opium (poppy) plant. At the same time, “opioids” are all substances that interact with opioid receptors, including those created in the lab.

What are Opioids?

Opioids, sometimes called narcotics, are medications doctors prescribe to treat persistent or severe pain. They are used by those with persistent headaches and blood alcohol levels, those recovering from surgery or dealing with excruciating pain from cancer, as well as by adults and kids who have suffered major injuries while playing sports or in falls, car accidents, or other situations.

A large class of painkillers known as opioids interact with opioid receptors in your cells to relieve pain. Opioids can be produced in a lab, such as fentanyl, or from the poppy plant, like morphine, Kadian, Ms. Contin, Actiq, Duragesic, etc.

Your brain cells release signals that reduce your sense of pain and increase your emotions of pleasure when opioid drugs pass through your blood and bind to opioid receptors. Opioid addiction can happen after just a week of use. The risk for long-term opioid abuse increases after only five days of taking medicine. Some individuals who only intended to use opioids for a week have continued to do so a year later.

Compared to 2019, the age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths rose 31% in 2020. Young individuals aged 15 to 24 saw the biggest percentage increase in fatalities, while adults aged 35 to 44 had the greatest rates of drug overdose deaths. The fight against substance use disorders and the opioid pandemic must continue in all facets.

Opiates Drugs Names

There are a variety of opiate drugs, all with different names. Some examples include codeine, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and methadone. It is important to know the names of opiates when seeking help for addiction, as intervention strategies and treatment plans may depend on the specific opiates being abused.

The top three opiate drugs most commonly prescribed are Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, and Codeine. Other opiate drugs may also be prescribed, depending on your needs and doctor’s advice.

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Sources

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