GENERIC NAME: MORPHINE SUSTAINED ACTION CAPSULE - ORAL (MORE-feen)

BRAND NAME(S): Kadian

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

HOW TO USE: To prevent upset stomach, take with food or milk. Swallow capsules whole. Do not chew or crush them. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, they may be opened and their entire contents sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce. Swallow this mixture whole. Do not chew the mixture, as serious side effects could result. Pain medications work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, the medication is not as effective in relieving it. Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well. Consult your doctor if this medication is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

SIDE EFFECTS: May cause constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, and flushing the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: irregular heartbeats, anxiety, tremors, seizures. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, breathing problems, alcohol and/or substance abuse, colitis or other intestinal/stomach problems, severe diarrhea, head injury, heart problems, drug allergies. Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. Limit alcohol intake because it may add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this medication. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, no problems have been noted in nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.