Respiratory depression is the most serious adverse effect of morphine. It occurs when opioid receptors suppress brainstem respiratory centers.
Pain associated with advanced cancer or terminal illness can be severe and multifaceted. Morphine provides reliable relief by acting centrally to reduce pain perception and emotional distress. Its flexibility in dosing and administration routes makes it suitable for patients with varying needs and physical limitations.
In addition to pain control, morphine is widely used to alleviate dyspnea, or the sensation of breathlessness. By reducing respiratory drive and anxiety, morphine can significantly ease discomfort in patients with advanced lung disease or heart failure.
Palliative care teams prioritize individualized treatment plans. Morphine dosing is carefully adjusted based on symptom severity, patient tolerance, and response. The objective is comfort, not sedation, allowing patients to remain as alert and engaged as possible.
Risk factors include high doses, rapid administration, and concurrent sedatives. Monitoring respiratory rate…