WARNING

Morphabond is an extended-release formulation of the opioid pain medication morphine sulfate. Like any medication, it carries certain risks and potential side effects, particularly when not used as prescribed or inappropriately. Here are some of the risks associated with taking Morphabond:

• Addiction and Dependence: Morphabond is an opioid, which means it has a high potential for addiction and physical dependence. Individuals may develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same pain relief.
• Respiratory Depression: Opioids like Morphabond can slow down the respiratory system, potentially leading to dangerous breathing difficulties or even respiratory failure, especially if taken in high doses or mixed with other depressant substances like alcohol.
• Overdose: Taking too much Morphabond, either accidentally or intentionally, can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Signs of overdose may include slowed breathing, extreme drowsiness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
• Sedation and Drowsiness: Morphabond can cause significant drowsiness and sedation, impairing an individual’s ability to operate machinery, drive, or perform other activities that require alertness.
• Constipation: Opioids are known to cause severe constipation, which can become a chronic issue for those taking Morphabond.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting as side effects of Morphabond.
• Itching and Rash: Skin reactions, including itching and rashes, can occur in some individuals.
• Drug Interactions: Morphabond can interact with other medications, particularly other central nervous system depressants like benzodiazepines, increasing the risk of dangerous side effects, including respiratory depression.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: When someone becomes dependent on Morphabond and attempts to stop or reduce its use, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle and bone pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.
• Misuse and Diversion: There is a risk of Morphabond being misused or diverted to the illicit market, contributing to the opioid epidemic.

It’s crucial to take Morphabond only as prescribed by a healthcare professional, to be vigilant about potential side effects, and to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or issues you may encounter while taking this medication. Additionally, healthcare providers should carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of prescribing Morphabond and consider alternative pain management strategies when appropriate to minimize the potential harm associated with opioid use.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Morphabond is typically prescribed to manage severe pain in individuals who require around-the-clock pain relief and for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate or inappropriate. It contains morphine sulfate, which is a potent opioid analgesic. Some common reasons why Morphabond might be prescribed include:

• Chronic Pain: Morphabond may be prescribed for the management of chronic pain conditions such as cancer-related pain, severe back pain, neuropathic pain, or other conditions where non-opioid pain relievers are insufficient.
• Post-Surgery Pain: It can be used for pain control following major surgeries or procedures where other pain medications are not effective.
• Trauma-Related Pain: Morphabond may be prescribed to individuals who have suffered severe injuries or trauma.
• Terminal Illness: For patients with terminal illnesses, Morphabond may be used to provide comfort and pain relief during the end-of-life care.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for using Morphabond:

• Prescription: Morphabond should only be used when prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider who has evaluated the patient’s pain and determined that opioid therapy is appropriate.
• Dosage: The dosage of Morphabond is individualized based on the patient’s pain severity, response to treatment, and previous opioid tolerance. Patients should always take the prescribed dose and not exceed it.
• Extended-Release: Morphabond is an extended-release formulation, which means it releases morphine slowly over an extended period (typically 12-24 hours). It should not be crushed, chewed, or broken, as this can lead to a potentially fatal overdose.
• Frequency: Typically, Morphabond is taken every 12 or 24 hours, as directed by the healthcare provider. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosing schedule.
• Monitoring: Patients should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while taking Morphabond to assess its effectiveness, manage side effects, and evaluate the need for continued use.
• Avoid Alcohol: Patients should avoid consuming alcohol while taking Morphabond, as it can increase the risk of respiratory depression and other adverse effects.
• Constipation Management: Patients taking Morphabond should be proactive in managing opioid-induced constipation, which is a common side effect. This may involve dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and the use of laxatives or stool softeners as recommended by a healthcare provider.
• Gradual Tapering: When discontinuing Morphabond or switching to another pain management strategy, healthcare providers will typically recommend a gradual tapering schedule to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

It’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider regarding the use of Morphabond, including any concerns or side effects you may experience. Additionally, healthcare providers should closely monitor patients on Morphabond to ensure safe and effective pain management while minimizing the risk of misuse or dependence.

Other uses for this medicine

It’s important to note that Morphabond should not be used for purposes other than pain management. Its primary and approved use is for pain relief, especially in cases where other pain management options have proven inadequate. Morphabond is an opioid medication, and it carries the risk of dependence, addiction, and serious side effects, so it should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Morphabond, given its potential for addiction, side effects, and the risk of overdose. Here are some important precautions to follow:

• Prescription: Only use Morphabond if it has been prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. Do not use it without a prescription or share it with others.
• Dosage: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and dosing schedule. Do not increase the dose or take it more frequently than prescribed.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any history of substance abuse, mental health conditions, or respiratory issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Morphabond with your healthcare provider. Opioid use during pregnancy can lead to neonatal withdrawal syndrome in newborns.
• Avoid Alcohol and Other Substances: Do not consume alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking Morphabond, as it can increase the risk of respiratory depression and other adverse effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Morphabond can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid activities that require alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Constipation Management: Be proactive in managing opioid-induced constipation, as it is a common side effect. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and the use of laxatives or stool softeners.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for proper monitoring of your pain management and to assess any potential side effects or issues with the medication.
• Storage: Keep Morphabond in a secure location out of reach of children and others who may misuse it. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Disposal: Safely dispose of any unused Morphabond according to local guidelines or medication take-back programs to prevent accidental exposure or misuse.

Always maintain open and honest communication with your healthcare provider regarding your experience with Morphabond, including any side effects or concerns. They can adjust your treatment plan or provide guidance on transitioning to alternative pain management strategies when appropriate.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Food and Drink: You can take Morphabond with or without food. It’s generally recommended to take it the same way each time to maintain consistency. Food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
• Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Morphabond, as it can interact with the medication and potentially lead to adverse effects or increased drug levels in your system.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Morphabond, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one. Taking too much Morphabond can lead to serious side effects, including overdose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Morphabond, like other opioid medications, can cause various side effects. It’s crucial to be aware of these side effects and promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Opioids can often cause nausea and vomiting, especially when you first start taking them. Your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medication to help manage these symptoms.
• Constipation: Opioid medications can lead to severe constipation. Drinking plenty of water, eating a high-fiber diet, and using over-the-counter laxatives as directed by your doctor can help manage this side effect.
• Dizziness or Drowsiness: Morphabond can make you feel dizzy or drowsy. Avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Itching and Sweating: Some individuals may experience itching, sweating, or skin reactions while taking Morphabond.
• Respiratory Depression: This is a severe side effect where breathing becomes slow and shallow. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing.
• Dependency and Addiction: Like all opioids, there is a risk of developing dependency or addiction with Morphabond, especially if used improperly or for an extended period. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and only use it as prescribed.
• Other Serious Side Effects: Morphabond may cause other rare but severe side effects, such as allergic reactions, confusion, hallucinations, and low blood pressure. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

It’s crucial to have regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Morphabond to monitor your response to the medication and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Never abruptly stop taking Morphabond without consulting your healthcare provider, as withdrawal symptoms can occur. Always use this medication under the guidance of a medical professional.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Keep Secure: Store Morphabond in a secure location, out of reach of children, pets, and anyone who might misuse the medication. Opioids like Morphabond are sought after by individuals with a history of substance abuse.
• Room Temperature: Store Morphabond at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, where humidity can affect the medication’s integrity.
• Original Container: Keep Morphabond in its original prescription container to ensure proper labeling and dosing information.

Disposal:

• Do Not Flush: Do not flush morphine down the toilet or pour it down the sink unless specific disposal instructions are provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Medication Take-Back Programs: Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare facility for medication take-back programs or disposal options in your area. Many communities have designated locations for safe medication disposal.
• FDA Guidelines: If there are no specific disposal instructions available, the FDA recommends mixing morphine with an undesirable substance (e.g., coffee grounds or cat litter) in a sealed plastic bag and then disposing of it in the household trash. Remove any personal information from the prescription label before disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms while taking Morphabond, or if someone else is exhibiting signs of overdose, take immediate action:

• Call 911: Dial emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about the medication, including its name (Morphabond), the strength, and the amount taken. Describe the person’s symptoms and any other relevant information.
• Administer Naloxone: If you have access to naloxone (Narcan), an opioid overdose reversal medication, and you know how to use it, administer it if it is safe to do so. Naloxone can reverse the effects of opioid overdose temporarily, but medical attention is still required.

What other information should I know

• Regular Check-Ins: Keep regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your pain management and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Tolerance and Dependence: Understand that with prolonged use, tolerance (needing higher doses for the same effect) and physical dependence (experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking the medication) can develop.
• Alternative Pain Management: Discuss alternative pain management strategies with your healthcare provider, including non-opioid options and non-pharmacological approaches, which can help reduce the reliance on opioids.
• Avoid Alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol while taking Morphabond, as it can interact with the medication and increase the risk of respiratory depression and other adverse effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Always inform any healthcare provider, including dentists or specialists, about your use of Morphabond, as it may interact with other medications or treatments.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the use of Morphabond with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits.
• Driving and Machinery: Be cautious when operating machinery or driving, as Morphabond can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to perform such activities safely.

It’s essential to use Morphabond responsibly, as prescribed by your healthcare provider, to manage pain effectively while minimizing risks and potential harm. Open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is crucial throughout your treatment to ensure the best possible outcomes.