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MS Contin

MS Contin® (Morphine Sulfate) is a potent opiate drug used to treat moderate to severe pain for those who are already opioid-tolerant. This painkiller is intended for those who require both continuous and long-term pain management treatment. MS Contin® may also be used for chronic pain management. This medication is available in tablets and injectable forms for intramuscular or intravenous use. MS Contin® is not to be taken as a PRN, or as needed. Furthermore, patients should take this drug while under close supervision of a doctor because it has a high potential of dose increase and health risks.

* The two highest doses are for patients already tolerant to opiates and can cause fatal respiratory depression. Because the drugs are considered a strong narcotic pain reliever, MS Contin is usually prescribed for cancer patients or those who have suffered severe physical trauma. Similar formulas made and sold by other companies include Avinza and Kadian.

Morphine Drugs:
  • Avinza
  • Kadina
  • MS Contin
  • MSIR
  • Oramorph

When MS CONTIN therapy is no longer necessary, symptoms of withdrawal may occur. Discuss with your prescribing physician the possibility of a gradual downward titration or an inpatient medical detoxification.

 
 

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Warnings of Abuse, Dependence, and Addiction

MS Contin is the “cousin” of OxyContin and a powerful narcotic used to treat pain. A warning from the manufacturer says MS Contin has the potential for misuse, abuse, diversion, and dependence. It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S. The federal Drug Enforcement Agency classifies drugs based on their potential to be habit-forming and cause abuse. The warning says MS Contin is to be swallowed whole, and pills broken, chewed, dissolved or crushed can release a potentially fatal dose of morphine.

A doctor or pharmacist may also prescribe other pain relievers along with MS Contin, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Additionally, individuals should not take MS Contin with alcohol, as it could result in dangerous side effects or death. Do not to take a higher dose than what is prescribed by a doctor. Also, this drug should not be given to people without a prescription. Caution when driving or performing other tasks that require alertness, is a must. Speak to your  healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The powerful opiate may be harmful to fetuses and can cause addiction and powerful withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies. Because MS Contin can also be found in breast milk, women should talk to their doctors about alternatives before breastfeeding.

Side Effects of Morphine Drugs

Side effects may decrease after you use this medication for a certain amount of time.

Get immediate medical help if you have any serious, life-threatening side effects, including:

  • Fainting
  • Seizure
  • Slow heart rate
  • Slow or shallow breathing
  • Severe drowsiness
  • Difficulty waking up
  • Impaired thinking or reactions

 

Although a serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare, it can be possible. If you notice symptoms of a possible allergy, including rash, itching or swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat), severe dizziness or trouble breathing, please seek immediate medical help.

You may additionally report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

For example, less Severe side effects can include:

  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Lightheadedness
  • A headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Loss of appetite
  • Low Blood Pressure
  • Nervousness or anxiety
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Hiccups

 

Consequently, the physical and psychological discomfort of withdrawal is one of the main reasons people delay seeking treatment for opiate addiction. Patients are likely to experience unpleasant side effects and/or powerful withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking MS Contin suddenly. For instance, side effects could be intense anxiety, nausea, insomnia, fever, muscle pain and flu-like symptoms.

Detoxing from MS Contin: Withdrawal Symptoms

Once dependence occurs, drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms are common if there is a sudden discontinuation of the drug intake. Withdrawal symptoms often start within 6-12 hours of the last dose.

For example, early symptoms can include:

  • Tearing up
  • Yawning
  • Sweating, and a runny nose.

As time progresses, withdrawal discomfort also intensifies.

Within 48-72 hours, people can start feeling:

  • Chills
  • Goosebumps
  • High blood pressure
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Anxiety
  • Muscle pain
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Loss of appetite
  • Depression, and drug cravings.

 

Emotional withdrawal symptoms can also be significant, and the adequate assistance is crucial for recovery success.

Morphine Addiction and Treatment

Detoxing from opiates can be difficult, especially in those who have been using opioids for a long time. Often it is difficult to stop using opiates without help. However, in-patient and out-patient treatment centers offer a variety of therapies for addiction. Depending on the severity and length of abuse, treatment could entail detox, rehabilitation, and counseling. Most drug rehabs use support groups as their approach towards recovery. These groups are a great way to receive peer support, but should never replace professional treatment. Moreover, opioid withdrawal produces both physical and emotional side effects. Distressful withdrawal symptoms begin when the drug’s half-life expires. While some mistakenly believe opioid withdrawal is not life-threatening, it can be very dangerous. Overall, detox is most successful under the supervision and guidance of physicians in a medical facility.

The Waismann Method® offers a number of different medical detoxification treatment for opioids.

Above all, Waismann staff provides the best care possible by rooting our program in medically-proven protocols. Our quadruple board-certified medical director utilizes the most advanced medical techniques available. Then, our private recovery center offers licensed counselors that motivate and meet clients where they are. We carefully listen to each individual to gain an understanding of their unique needs. Waismann Method and Domus Retreat have been at the forefront of drug detoxification and treatment. Our efforts and goals are as strong today, as they were 20 years ago when we begin.

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