Long-term morphine use can have significant consequences, including physical dependence and the development of opioid use disorder (OUD). In addition, long-term effects include risks to respiratory function, hormonal balance and cognitive abilities.[1]
One of the biggest risks of long-term use and misuse of morphine is overdose. Signs of morphine overdose include slowed breathing, extreme drowsiness, confusion, pinpoint pupils, lips turning bluish-white and unresponsiveness.[2]
If you believe that you or someone you love is experiencing an overdose, call 911. If there is a risk of overdose due to long-term use of morphine, don’t wait to reach out for help. Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) can reduce and even eliminate the risk of overdose.
Morphine, an opioid poppy plant derivative, is an extremely potent pain relief medicine prescribed by healthcare professionals to relieve severe discomfort after surgery or otherwise manage pain.[1]
Though it is effective for this purpose, it also creates a high in users that is very addictive. Many people find that they start craving the drug soon after they start taking it. Continued use can mean that more and more of the drug is needed to experience the original high. Taking higher doses can more quickly lead to OUD and an increased risk of overdose.
Opioids like morphine are responsible for over 70% of global drug overdose deaths each year.[2] Due to the high risk of overdose when taking the drug, doctors only prescribe extended-release tablets of morphine to manage pain when other treatments have not proven to be successful or suitable.[3]
Morphine is a Schedule II narcotic.[4] While it is legal for medicinal use, it is highly controlled by the government. It is only legal for use with a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional, and it is illegal to sell your prescription, buy pills from someone else or take more than prescribed.
The long-term side effects of morphine include physical, behavioral and psychological effects.[1,3-5]
Physical EffectsBehavioral EffectsPsychological EffectsConstipationDrug-seeking behaviorDependence and OUDToleranceSocial withdrawalMood swings and emotional changesHormonal imbalancesIsolation from family and friendsAnxietyWeakened immune systemNeglecting responsibilitiesDepressionSleep disturbancesChanges in sleep patternsPsychological dependence Respiratory depressionImpaired judgmentIrritabilitySexual dysfunctionRisky behaviorsCognitive impairmentMuscle weakness and atrophyMemory problemsBone density lossHallucinations Increased pain sensitivityDelusions
If you or someone you know exhibits any of the following symptoms of an overdose, don’t delay in calling for emergency medical assistance. Dial 911 immediately and stay with the affected individual until help arrives. Your prompt action could save a life.
Signs of morphine overdose include the following:[2,4]
Withdrawal from opioids like morphine can be challenging and uncomfortable, especially without the care of a medical professional. Without medical support, relapse is very likely.
Common signs and symptoms associated with morphine withdrawal include the following:[1,5]
Learning to manage OUD may seem out of reach, but with appropriate support and treatment, it's entirely achievable. Here are a few strategies to help you stop misusing morphine:[2]
This is an innovative combination of behavioral therapy and medications (such as methadone, buprenorphine or naltrexone) that are designed to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms and promote long-term recovery.
Patients taking these medications can concentrate more on the rest of the healing process. They are much less likely to relapse back to morphine misuse.
Identify the triggers that encourage you to relapse. Then, avoid those situations as much as possible. If you can't avoid them, aim to limit your exposure and have a plan for how you will react.
Engage in individual or group therapy sessions actively in order to identify factors that contribute to substance misuse. In therapy, you’ll learn effective coping mechanisms to manage cravings and triggers for substance misuse.
Participating in support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous or SMART Recovery, can provide invaluable connections with people who understand your struggles. Meetings can also give you an opportunity to give back to the recovery community and support newcomers later on when you are feeling more stable.
Surround yourself with people who can offer comfort and guidance during challenging times. You aren’t alone, and the stronger your support system, the better your chances of long-term success.
Recognize that relapses may happen and create a plan to limit their scope. Relapse is not a sign of failure.[6] It is simply a sign that treatment must be adjusted.
Bicycle Health provides accessible and comprehensive care for morphine addiction and abuse. We offer MAT programs with Suboxone, so withdrawal symptoms and cravings are managed.
You’ll work to build healthy habits and learn how to respond to relapse triggers in therapy, as you build the foundation of a life in recovery. And this is all available via telehealth platforms, making MAT accessible to anyone who needs it.
Seeking help is an act of strength. If you or anyone close to you is struggling with substances like morphine, reach out to us today. We can help you take the first steps on the road to a lasting recovery.
Peter Manza, PhD received his BA in Psychology and Biology from the University of Rochester and his PhD in Integrative Neuroscience at Stony Brook University. He is currently working as a research scientist in Washington, DC. His research focuses on the role of the brain dopamine system in substance use disorders and in aging. He also studies brain function in obesity and eating disorders.
