Medication information
PrescriptionControlled / monitored requirements may apply

Morphine

Strong opioid for moderate-to-severe pain, including palliative use

Morphine is one of the longest-used strong opioids. It comes as immediate-release tablets and oral solution, controlled-release tablets/capsules (MS Contin, M-Eslon), and injection. It is widely used in palliative care.

How the pharmacy helps

Morphine is a narcotic. Original prescriptions required; no refills. The pharmacist will review breakthrough plans and interactions on every fill, and can supply free naloxone kits for the household.

Access framing

Available by prescription only. Morphine is a narcotic — original prescriptions required, no refills permitted.

Access

Available by prescription only. Morphine is a narcotic — original prescriptions required, no refills permitted.

Storage

Original container, out of reach of children. Many patients use a small lock box.

Disposal

Return unused opioids to the pharmacy for disposal — no charge.

Forms and strengths

Medication entries grouped here

Strengths, dosage forms, brands, or package entries may vary. Your prescription label and pharmacist counselling are the instructions to follow.

Brand / GenericStrengthFormDINRecord
MS Contin
Morphine Sulfate
15mgCR TabletActive
COMMON QUESTIONS

Questions
Morphine Questions

Doses are measured with a marked oral syringe — never a kitchen spoon. We provide the syringe with the prescription.
Opioid-induced constipation is the most common ongoing side effect. A laxative regimen is usually started at the same time.
For controlled-release morphine, take the missed dose if it is within 4–6 hours; otherwise skip and resume the next dose. Do not double up.

Have questions about this medication?

Call the pharmacy or bring the medication to the counter. We can help compare labels, dosing schedules, storage needs, and questions to ask your prescriber.

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