Morphine Signs, Withdrawal Symptoms, & Side Effects

How Does Morphine Work?

Morphine binds to opioid receptors in the brain, altering pain transmission and activating the reward system. When morphine binds to opioid receptors in the reward system, it triggers the release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward, contributing to the analgesic (pain-relieving) and euphoric effects of morphine.

The interaction between morphine and the brain’s reward system can also lead to potential risks. Prolonged use or misuse of morphine can lead to tolerance, where the brain becomes less responsive to the drug’s effects. As a result, you may require higher doses of morphine to achieve the same level of pain relief or euphoria.

Physical & Psychological Side Effects of Using Morphine

Morphine use can lead to various physical and psychological side effects, which may occur in the short term or manifest over a more extended period of use. Understanding these effects is crucial to ensure the safe and appropriate use of morphine.

Short-Term Side Effects

After taking morphine orally, the effects usually start within 30 minutes to an hour. When administered intravenously or intramuscularly, the onset of effects may be faster, typically occurring within a few minutes. The duration of morphine symptoms can range from four to six hours, but it may vary based on personal circumstances.

Short-term morphine side effects may include:

• Pain relief.
• Sedation.
• Respiratory depression.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Constipation.

Long-Term Effects

The development of long-term side effects from morphine use can vary depending on individual issues, including the duration and dosage of use. It’s important to note that long-term side effects generally occur with prolonged or chronic use.

Long-term side effects include:

• Tolerance — With prolonged use, the body can develop tolerance to morphine, requiring higher doses to achieve the same pain relief, increasing the risk of dependence and addiction.
• Physical dependence — Your body adapts to the continued presence of morphine in your system. Sudden discontinuation or significant dose reduction can lead to morphine withdrawal symptoms.
• Hormonal imbalances — Morphine use may disrupt the normal production and release of hormones, potentially affecting reproductive and endocrine function.
• Sleep disturbances — Long-term use of morphine can lead to insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness.

How Long Do Morphine & Opioid Side Effects Last?

The duration of morphine and opioid side effects can vary depending on your health and the duration of use. While some side effects may subside after a short period, others may persist for an extended period.

It is important to note that chronic use of morphine can lead to a higher risk of adverse effects and prolonged withdrawal symptoms.

Morphine Withdrawal Symptoms Associated with Dependence & Addiction

If you use morphine for an extended period or misuse the drug, you may develop dependence or addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can occur when attempting to reduce or stop the use of morphine abruptly.

Morphine Withdrawal Timeline

The timeline for morphine withdrawal can vary depending on many factors, including your metabolism, dosage, and duration of use. Common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Early stage (within 6-12 hours) — Agitation, anxiety, muscle aches, insomnia, sweating, and teary eyes.
• Peak stage (within 72 hours) — Increased intensity of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, goosebumps, and dilated pupils.
• Later stage (after 7 days) — Symptoms start to improve, although you may experience prolonged withdrawal effects such as mood swings, depression, and difficulty concentrating.