Morphine Sulfate

Question 1

Drug Classification

Answer 1

Opiate Analgesic

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Opiate R agonist -> hyperpolarization of interneurons and decreased release of neurotransmitters responsible for the transmission of pain impulses to the thalamus and cerebral cortex

Question 3

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 3

• Onset of Action- immediate IV, 15-30min IM
• Peak Effects- 20 minutes IV, 30-60 IM
• Duration of Effects- 2-7 hours
• Half-Life- 1-7 hours

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

Severe pain

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

• Hypotension

- Significant head trauma with AMS

Question 6

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Answer 6

N+V, abd cramps, blurred vision, constricted pupils, AMS, HA

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adult
0.1mg/kg slow (2mg/min) IV/IO/IM max single dose 10mg, q 10 minutes up to 3 total doses

Adult >65 yrs:
0.05mg/kg slow (2mg/min) IV/IO/IM max single dose 10mg, q 10 minutes up to 3 total doses

Pedi
0.1mg/kg slow IV/IO/IM

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

• Morphine causes reduced chemoreceptor responsiveness to increases in CO2-> may lead to respiratory depression
• Caution with patient with hypersensitivity to analogs (similar form of narcotics) of morphine

Question 9

Drug-Drug interactions

Answer 9

Additive effects (CNS depression) when given with antihistamines, antiemetics, sedatives, hypnotics, barbiturates, and alcohol