MORPHINE EXTENDED-RELEASE CAPSULES - ORAL (Avinza) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: MORPHINE EXTENDED-RELEASE CAPSULES - ORAL (MORE-feen)

BRAND NAME(S): Avinza

WARNING: This form of morphine is specially made to provide long- acting relief of moderate-to-severe chronic pain. It is recommended to only be taken once a day. This medication should be swallowed whole (see How To Use section for more details). Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the contents of this medication. Doing so may cause severe, or in rare cases, fatal overdoses of morphine. Consult your pharmacist for details.

USES: Morphine extended-release is used for the long-term treatment of pain (chronic pain). It is specially made to release doses of morphine continuously throughout the day. Therefore, it only needs to be taken once daily. Since it helps relieve pain and also can cause drowsiness, it will help you sleep. Relief of chronic pain is important in order to improve your quality of life. This form of morphine is not recommended for short-term (acute) or "as needed" pain relief. Your doctor may prescribe another type of short-acting (immediate release) pain medicine for acute or breakthrough pain.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily without regard to food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the capsules. Swallow the capsule(s) whole. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be opened and the contents sprinkled into applesauce and taken as directed. Do not chew the food/medication mixture or make-up a supply in advance. Doing so may result in serious, even fatal, overdose. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. The maximum daily dose of this medication is 1,600 mg. Using more than this amount can result in serious kidney problems (due to buildup of fumaric acid, which is contained in this medicine). Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. When used for an extended period this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.