MSK (Opiates - Morphine)

Question 1

Examples of drug (Opiates - Morphine)

Answer 1

• Morphine

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Opiates - Morphine)

Answer 2

• Opioid receptor agonist; acts on mu, kappa and delta on presynaptic neurones. This gives numerous effects that increase nociceptive thresholds throughout the central and peripheral nervous system.

Question 3

Indications (Opiates - Morphine)

Answer 3

o Acute severe pain (including in setting of myocardial infarction)
o Acute pulmonary oedema
o Chronic pain

Question 4

Side effects (Opiates - Morphine)

Answer 4

o	Nausea
o	Vomiting
o	Abdominal pain
o	Constipation
o	Respiratory depression
o	Sedation

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (Opiates - Morphine)

Answer 5

o Predominantly metabolised by the liver.
o Metabolites are active and can accumulate in renal failure.
o Accumulation can result in respiratory and central nervous system depression.

Question 6

Patient information (Opiates - Morphine)

Answer 6

o Often given with an anti-emetic to reduce nausea / vomiting.