7 Common Facts About Morphine Addiction People Usually Get Wrong

We often think prescription medicines are always safe to use, but you will be surprised to find out that Morphine addiction is ranked as the third leading cause of drug-related emergency admissions! Morphine is labeled as a schedule II controlled substance by FDA and DEA. And rightfully so, because even when taking recommended doses, Morphine can be highly addictive. 

Unfortunately, without truly understanding the dangers of addiction, we rush to the internet or rely on knowledge to find quick morphine addiction solutions. During this process, we stumble upon many misconceptions which we believe are valid.

ChoicePoint is here to separate truth from misconceptions and bring you only valid information. This will help you understand Morphine addiction so you can help yourself or your precious ones struggling with addiction.

 

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FACT 1: Morphine Belongs to Extremely Addictive Class of Drugs Known as Opioids

 

Opioids are derived from opium poppy plants. These include two classes of drugs:

• Naturally derived: Morphine, Oxycodone, Codeine
• Artificially synthesized in a laboratory: Heroin, Fentanyl, Methadone, Buprenorphine

When used correctly, opioids act as pain-relievers. This is because our body (brain and spinal cord predominantly) has special receptors known as opioid receptors. The binding of opioids to its receptors results in the suppression of pain. These produce effects of euphoria and ecstasy at higher doses, which results in many people using them for recreational purposes. 

You might think that it is all right to take a little more dose because your doctor has prescribed it, and it is safe to use. Or you may feel that it is giving you relief from pain so that a little extra dose wouldn’t harm your health. But, there are no two opinions on opioid abuse potential. You will quickly develop tolerance to opioids which will lead to abuse and ultimately addiction. Since Morphine is an opioid, there is no denying that it has built-in Addiction Potential.

Beware of Morphine Addiction Symptoms

You may think that using more than the recommended dose is the only sign of addiction. But, addiction is a disease; it is diagnosed according to the DSM-V criteria. 

These are the behavioral signs of addiction that you should never ignore:

• Intense cravings of Morphine
• Continuing medication even after the recommended duration set by your doctor
• Asking friends and family if they have Morphine
• Thinking about acquiring this drug through illegal means 
• Feeling discomfort when you don’t use it
• Feeling depressed 

For self-assessment, you should also be aware of these physical morphine addiction symptoms and also to spot addiction in your loved ones:

• Dilated pupils
• Slowed breathing
• Drowsiness and lethargy 
• Chills and tremors
• Muscle ache

 

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Who Is At the Risk of Developing Morphine Addiction?

People at risk of Morphine Addiction include:

• Having a history of opioid abuse
• Prolonged use of Morphine
• Family history of drug abuse
• Prescribed high dose of Morphine

A Quick Way to Find Out the Severity of Addiction

An easy way to know if you are suffering from addiction is through free self-assessment addiction quizzes. ChoicePoint offers a free, clinically reviewed addiction treatment quiz that can tell you if you or a loved one is suffering from addiction.

Please note this assessment is an initial self-screening, and it is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

 

 

FACT 2: Morphine Is Only Prescribed to Treat Intense Pain 

Are you taking Morphine properly? And, why are we asking this question? Because Morphine is prescribed to treat acute and chronic pain, it is only used to treat severe pain that persists for a longer time. 

This brings us to the following question:

What Are the Uses of Morphine?

Morphine is used for pain management:

• After surgery 
• During cancer treatment 
• After heart attack 
• Arthritis
• When people develop tolerance to other pain-killers
• When low potency pain-killers are no longer effective

Now you get an idea that Morphine is not just an ordinary pain reliever but a very potent one. Usually, what happens is that a doctor prescribes this medicine, but people think it is all right to share or recommend it to someone in need of a painkiller. Unfortunately, Morphine is not an over-the-counter medicine, so it is highly recommended that you do not share your prescription medication with anyone. Otherwise, they may develop a dependence upon it.

And sometimes, some people start using it for minor pain management and develop a dependency on it. That is why we highly recommend following your doctor’s advice and always consult your doctor about any concerns you might have.

Now, moving forward, it is essential to take a look at the side effects of Morphine. This will help you to follow the recommended dosage and remember self-medication is never recommended. 

 

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Side Effects of Morphine

Morphine may cause life-threatening conditions like severe breathing problems within 24-48hr of use. Therefore, it is essential to take this medication under medical supervision only. Some other side effects of morphine abuse include:

• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Rash and itching
• Hallucinations
• Vomiting and fever
• Seizures

If you experience these side effects, please immediately consult your doctor for help.  

Recommended Dose of Morphine

The doctor sets the recommended dose of Morphine according to the intensity of pain. The recommended dose is:

• Extended-release capsule: 1 after 12-24 hours
• Extended-release tablet: 1 after 8-12 hours
• Morphine solution: 10-20mg after 4 hours 

Disclaimer: You should always consult your doctor about recommended doses. An overdose may result in severe respiratory problems.

FACT 3: Morphine Addiction Is Not a Choice 

 

Addiction is a disease, and people suffering from it require empathy and compassion to overcome it. If you start labeling them, you are pushing them even further down the road of addiction.

ChoicePoint aims to minimize the negative perception associated with addiction by helping you understand how people develop an addiction to Morphine and how you can help people overcome morphine addiction.

Morphine Mechanism of Action

Morphine is an opioid, so it has an affinity for opioid receptors such as:

• Delta opioid receptors
• Kappa opioid receptors
• Mu opioid receptors

These receptors are present in our central nervous system. To reduce the perception of pain, Morphine binds to the Mu- receptors and kappa receptors. This results in an overall inhibitory effect on our nervous system. It also suppresses the pain-related neurons traveling to our brain, which acts as a pain reliever. Morphine also activates our reward system and produces the feeling of calmness and euphoria. As it offers relief, sometimes people start abusing it unintentionally. 

If you or a loved one takes more than recommended doses of Morphine, please encourage them to talk to a consultant. You can now connect with a licensed clinician to discuss all your concerns by calling us at 844.445.2565. We are here to answer all your queries. You can schedule an appointment with us for a virtual consultation. 

 

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How Morphine Changes Functioning of Our Brain?

Morphine addiction is dangerous as it directly affects the working of our brain. Here is how: 

Changes at Synapse 

You can think of a synapse as an information exchange site between the body and the brain. Morphine disrupts the natural pathways occurring at the synapse. This delays messages between the brain and the body, affecting our memory and cognitive behavior.

Decrease of Natural Reward Receptors

We often get this question: why does a person feel high and euphoric when taking drugs only? Why does natural happiness not excite him as compared to drugs? Well, abusing drugs, including Morphine, produces increased levels of dopamine. The body controls this effect by stimulating our brain to reduce the number of reward receptors. And with fewer receptors, our body does not respond as much to natural stimulants.

But, if you overcome Morphine addiction, the body’s reward mechanism is restored to normal functioning, and you will enjoy happiness over little things again. 

Morphine Abuse Leads to Increased Tolerance 

When you abuse Morphine or take more than the prescribed amounts of Morphine, it starts affecting the brain’s normal functioning. Your brain suppresses the natural reward and suppression system and begins to depend on Morphine.

Over time, it leads to tolerance. Because natural pathways are suppressed, your body requires an increased dose of Morphine to produce the same effect. It is very dangerous because, if still untreated, it may lead to Morphine overdose or addiction.

Long-Term Effects of Morphine Addiction

As you take this drug for a prolonged duration, it can have some dangerous long-term consequences, such as:

• Impaired cognitive behavior
• Memory impairment 
• Poor reasoning skills
• Loss of appetite
• Engaging in illegal means to acquire this drug

 

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A little Compassion Goes a Long Way!

 

Now you get an idea that Morphine has in-built addiction potential. So if you or a loved one is struggling with Morphine addiction, the best thing you can do is to shower them with compassion and support.

Addiction can only be treated through professional help. Don’t wait for your loved ones to hit rock bottom. Help them recover by scheduling an appointment with ChoicePoint. Your support and encouragement can save a life!

 

FACT 4: Morphine Interacts Dangerously With Alcohol

Alcohol is dangerous on its own, but when combined with Morphine, it can have life-threatening consequences! As we learned earlier, Morphine is an opioid. And all opioids react dangerously to alcohol.

Why Is It Dangerous to Mix Alcohol and Morphine?

Alcohol addiction is hazardous and can severely affect mental and physical health. Want to learn more about alcohol addiction? You can read our ultimate guide to learn everything you need to know about alcohol addiction.

Alcohol and Morphine both can act as a sedative. The combined effect of both Morphine and alcohol enhances the intoxicating and sedating effects, which leads to a more rapid and severe overdose. 

 

 

What Are the Side Effects of Taking Alcohol With Morphine?

If you are prescribed opioids such as Morphine, it is vital to keep your alcohol consumption in check. Mixing alcohol and opioids can cause severe nervous system depression and reduced oxygen supply, resulting in coma or even death!

More of the deadly side effects such as:

• Severe respiratory distress
• Hallucinations
• Extreme dizziness
• Liver diseases
• Kidney failure
• Coma 

What to Do If Someone Is Struggling From Both Morphine and Alcohol Addiction?

Usually, teens and underage drinkers are vulnerable to the threat of mixing alcohol and opioids because they hide their drinking habits. It is essential to inform your doctor about any drinking history and if you are being prescribed an opioid.

There is still time to help your loved ones prevent the adverse side effects. Timely medical intervention can save their life. You can convince your loved ones to seek immediate help by:

• Making them aware of severe side effects
• Listening to their struggles
• Inform them about the benefits of medical help
• Helping them look for addiction treatment centers
• Making them understand how addiction is negatively affecting their life

How Can ChoicePoint Help?

Recovering from addiction may seem complicated, but it is possible! There are examples of many people who have recovered from addiction, and you can too.

If you are concerned about your addiction problems or seeking help for a loved one, please reach out to us. Our approach toward addiction treatment is holistic and result-oriented. We combine our treatments with therapy to help you prevent relapse and focus on healthy coping skills.

Medicaid and Medicare cover our addiction treatment programs, and we work with other commercial insurance companies to bring down cost-associated with high-quality treatment. So don’t wait for any further and schedule an appointment with us online or call us at 844.445.2565. You can also visit our North Jersey outpatient addiction treatment center in the Fair Lawn location in Bergen County, New Jersey.

 

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FACT 5: Quitting Morphine Cold-Turkey Is Unrealistic

If you are tempted to just leave Morphine at once, please stop! While we welcome your gesture to quit Morphine, leaving cold turkey is not the right way to do it. Why? Because leaving this drug ‘cold turkey can result in severe withdrawal symptoms. 

Morphine Withdrawal Symptoms

As discussed earlier, your body depends on Morphine for normal functioning. When you withdraw from this drug, your body will take time to function on its own without Morphine. 

During this time, you will feel some withdrawal symptoms such as: 

• Flu-like symptoms
• Abdominal cramps
• Chills and tremors
• Dizziness
• Restlessness
• Muscle ache

Morphine Withdrawal Duration and Timeline 

Morphine has a rapid onset, so you may experience withdrawal symptoms within 6-12 hours. There are usually two phases of Morphine withdrawal.

Phase 1: Mild Withdrawal Symptoms 

The withdrawal symptoms of opioids at this stage can be managed. These are usually flu-like symptoms.

Phase 2: Severe Withdrawal Symptoms

You may experience some severe withdrawal symptoms after 48-72 hours. You may experience these painful withdrawal symptoms:

• Increased blood pressure
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Tremors
• Depression

Looking for a Way to Manage Morphine Withdrawal Symptoms?

Can you relate to the withdrawal symptoms discussed earlier? Suppose you are showing signs of withdrawal symptoms. In that case, we recommend you begin the treatment with a medical professional as soon as possible because withdrawal symptoms significantly cause relapse.

Detox From Morphine

Detox is a cleansing of the body from the addictive residues of Morphine. A detox from Morphine usually lasts for 5-7 days. But it may vary depending on:

• Duration of drug use
• Frequency of use
• Medical history 
• Co-occurring disorders – Underlying medical condition or mental health problem
• Polydrug use- If you use alcohol or any opioids along with Morphine, detox may last longer.

Medications that Might be Prescribed for Morphine Withdrawal

Medications are prescribed as part of medication-assisted treatment to help you safely withdraw from Morphine. There is a massive misconception that MAT medications replace one drug with another. 

All the medications prescribed at the ChoicePoint MAT program for Morphine addiction are FDA-approved.

 

Clinical guidelines indicate that these drugs are safe to use for opioid addiction like Morphine:

• Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is the best medication available for opioid addiction treatment. It is used to treat moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms. It is an opioid antagonist and works by reducing cravings.

• Suboxone 

Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and Naloxone. Both these ingredients work together to reduce opioid dependency by reducing frequent cravings.

• Methadone 

Methadone works by helping you manage opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, there are now some mixed reviews about the use of this medication in maintenance phases. Many clinicians do not prescribe this medication now.

• Naltrexone 

Naltrexone is used for both alcohol and opioid use disorders. It curbs cravings and controls the feeling of euphoria associated with Morphine abuse.

• Naloxone  

Naloxone or Narcan is used in cases of emergency opioid overdose. It is available in spray form, and anyone with some training can administer it.

Want to learn more about Naloxone? Our Naloxone vs. Naltrexone blog highlights significant differences and how these drugs can help you overcome opioid addiction.

 

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ChoicePoint Morphine Detoxification Program

ChoicePoint is committed to helping people reclaim their life from addiction. Licensed doctors and clinicians lead our Morphine detox program. We have a holistic and result-oriented approach to help to initiate and maintain sobriety.

You will not be required to stay overnight at the facility through our outpatient detoxification center. After attending the session, you can return home and resume your daily activities. You are welcome to visit our North Jersey outpatient addiction treatment center in the Fair Lawn location in Bergen County, New Jersey.

 

 

FACT 6: Morphine Addiction Treatment Requires Medical Assistance 

 

If you know someone struggling with addiction, you can not expect them just to quit. You need to understand that addictive substances change the brain by stimulating the brain to develop a dependence on drugs. 

Addiction is an illness and a disease. Like every other disease, you need to seek medical assistance to recover. It is not possible to treat an illness by yourself. 

Top 3 Reasons Why People Don’t Seek Medical Assistance 

Did you know that approximately 23 million Americans have suffered from substance abuse at some point, and an alarming 75% reported not receiving any treatment? Think how many precious lives have been wasted. How many people could not enjoy their lives to their full potential? We have only one chance at life; please do not waste it by delaying your treatment.

Most people delay treatment because:

1. Denial

Recognizing that you need help is a big step toward recovery. Addiction may cloud your judgment. It is noted that most people recognize their addiction problems but are afraid to admit them. 

2. Negative Stigma

People usually associate shame with addiction treatment, which is incredibly wrong. It only pushes people away from recovery because they are afraid that people might think less of them.

3. Financial Aspects 

Most people suffering from addiction also suffer from financial issues. And there is a lot of misinformation that insurance companies do not cover addiction treatment. 

Why Should Not Delay Your Treatment?

ChoicePoint has got you covered if you are delaying your treatment for the above-mentioned reasons. We believe that you should not delay your treatment because:

1. Addiction Is Correlated With Mental Health Issues

It has been reported that people suffering from addiction are 1.3 times more likely to suffer from clinical depression and 1.8 times more likely to have a borderline personality disorder. You are only risking your mental and physical health by delaying your treatment.

2. Treatment Programs Are Confidential

Are you worried about people finding out about your addiction issues? ChoicePoint’s virtual and outpatient addiction treatment programs are private and confidential. This means you can recover without anyone finding out.

 

3. Insurance Coverage 

As mentioned earlier, financial constraints hold people back from getting treatment. ChoicePoint works with all commercial insurance companies to reduce the treatment cost. Don’t delay your treatment any further, verify your insurance online and call us today at 844.445.2565 to schedule an appointment 

 

Recovery Without Putting Your Life on Hold

With telehealth addiction treatment programs, recovering in the comfort of your home surrounded by your loved ones is impossible. ChoicePoint offers these virtual programs via telehealth services:

Virtual Online Addiction Treatment Programs

Virtual addiction treatments are as effective as inpatient treatment. In fact, more people are utilizing telehealth treatment options because:

• Online treatments are confidential
• Cost-effective than inpatient option
• Timings can be flexible according to your schedule
• Offer immediate support and help

Virtual Online Dual-Diagnosis Treatment 

Many patients experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and depression when they stop taking drugs. Or sometimes, it is the mental health issues that push people to use drugs in the first place. So, treating both mental health and addiction issues is crucial to increase the chances of sustainable recovery.

You can participate in ChoicePoint’s virtual dual diagnosis treatment program to increase your chances of long-term recovery. 

Online Suboxone Prescription:

The opioid crisis is at its peak. However, the timely availability of Suboxone, a wonder drug to treat Opioid addiction, can help patients deal with Opioid addiction. For same-day Suboxone prescription, ChoicePoint offers online suboxone prescriptions, which means that patients can get their prescription online without leaving the comfort of their home. 

 Benefits of online Suboxone Prescription include: 

• Easy access to Suboxone
• Hassle-free, no need to visit treatment center in person
• Patient-friendly and 24/7 availability
• Private and confidential

Suboxone doctors present in ChoicePoint’s state-of-the-art Fair Lawn’s New Jersey center are well equipped with the latest technology and DEA certification to prescribe Suboxone online. 

Outpatient Treatment Centers 

Outpatient treatment centers are best for mild to moderate addiction levels. Or if you have previously been in rehab and now looking for follow-up treatment. 

Benefits of outpatient treatment include:

• In-person consultation
• Careful monitoring of your condition
• Increased accountability
• Confidential treatments
• No need to stay at the facility
• Cost-effective than inpatient treatment  

 

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How to Help a Loved One Suffering From Morphine Addiction

Are you concerned for a loved one suffering from addiction? Here are some tips to help your loved ones overcome addiction:

a. Respect their Privacy

We know you want your loved ones to recover quickly, but you need to respect their privacy. Do not share their problems without their consent. And do not invade their personal space; instead, talk to them in a friendly manner.

b. Encourage them to get medical help 

Medical professionals can help your loved ones recover. Please, look for treatment options with them and participate actively in their addiction treatment process. 

c. Do not keep unrealistic expectations

 You can not expect an overnight recovery. Keep realistic expectations and celebrate every milestone to boost their confidence. 

d. Communicate your concerns

You should communicate your concerns and dangers of addiction through a constructive approach. Set healthy boundaries and hold your loved ones accountable for their actions. 

e. Practice acceptance

Accept and understand their flaws and struggles. If you fully understand their condition, only then can you help them recover.

 

ChoicePoint Addiction Treatment Center in Bergen County, North Jersey 

In addition to exceptional virtual services, we also offer in-person consultation. Overcoming addiction is hard but possible. There is always light after dark.

Our North Jersey outpatient addiction center is situated in a calm setting. We are here to make this experience comfortable and easy for you. You can visit us at the North Jersey outpatient addiction treatment center in the Fair Lawn location in Bergen County, New Jersey.

 

FACT 7: Relapse Is Common and Presents a Learning Opportunity 

Some people think that a relapse means that treatment has failed and they are beyond help. But, this is not the case. When you withdraw from drugs, your body requires time to restore the natural balance and work without drugs. During this time, you may feel intense cravings which may urge you to use Morphine again.

 

What to Do in Case of a Relapse?

If you experience a relapse, it is extremely important to inform your doctor. Why? Because he will re-evaluate your condition and help you manage your cravings. It is also very important for you to reflect on why you experienced a relapse. Some common reasons include:

• Presence of addiction triggers
• Not cutting ties with toxic relationships
• Not following your treatment plan 
• Facing stressful circumstances 

In addition, you should also inform your loved one or support system because their love, support, and encouragement will re-track your addiction recovery.

 

 

How to Prevent Morphine Relapse?

Morphine relapse can be prevented by participating in a therapy program along with your addiction treatment. 

Therapy is the best way to prevent relapse because:

• Therapy helps to identify the reasons for addiction
• It helps to identify the triggers that led to a relapse
• It helps to improve your mental health
• It treats depression and anxiety associated with Morphine withdrawal
• It helps to overcome any trauma
• It improves the thought process and overall emotional well-being

In addition to therapy, these pointers may also help you to maintain sobriety:

• Adopt productive habits and try to keep yourself busy
• Try to avoid the triggers at all cost
• Distance yourself from toxic relationships
• Complete your treatment plan
• Do not miss follow-up appointments 
• Do not withhold any information from your doctor

 

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Looking For Therapy Services for Morphine Addiction Treatment? 

ChoicePoint’s therapy program is led by licensed therapists only, with a result-oriented approach to help you recover from addiction and achieve true happiness. We offer both online and virtual therapy services.

Some behavioral therapies we offer for addiction include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – To improve thought process and overall well-being 
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy– To help you manage stress and emotions
• Family Therapy – To help you recover in a safe setting surrounded by your loved ones
• Group Therapy – A support system to help you commit to sobriety 
• Individual Therapy – Private and confidential one-on-one sessions 

 

The Final Takeaway 

There is a lot of misconception that surrounds drug addiction. Usually, people are afraid to talk to doctors about these concerns because of the negative stigma that surrounds addiction treatment. The most important takeaway from this blog is to always entrust your health to a medical professional. You can not treat addiction at home.

Similarly, Morphine addiction treatment is more than stopping taking Morphine. It is actually to heal your body from the side effects of Morphine abuse and to help you prevent addiction in the future.

So, if you are suffering from addiction, please do not give in to fears and misconceptions. ChoicePoint’s doctors and clinicians have all expertise and experience to help you recover from addiction. Don’t wait any further and get the quality treatment you deserve by contacting us at 844.445.2565 or visit our North Jersey outpatient addiction treatment center in the Fair Lawn location in Bergen County, New Jersey. We are waiting to help you in getting your life back with all the full colors. Let’s do it together!