Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.Attempting a bowel movement at the same time each day.Increasing physical activity when possible.
This side effect can often be managed well with the following preventative measures: Constipation Caused by Pain MedicationsĬonstipation is a very common side effect of pain medications that continues as long as you are taking the medications. If you continue to feel "out of it" after a couple of days, talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting your dosages. Most people will begin to feel like themselves after a few days on the medications. Avoid alcohol or other sedatives while using these medications unless they are specifically prescribed by your care team. Avoid driving or any other potentially dangerous tasks that require your concentration and a clear head until you feel normal again. Some people just don't "feel like themselves" on these medications. Sleepiness (Somnolence)įeeling sleepy, drowsy, or lightheaded may accompany the use of opioid pain medication. If any of these symptoms occur, you should seek emergency medical attention. These side effects are emergency situations. Sometimes patients who have taken too much opioid medication will be so sleepy that they can't be awakened or aroused. If you feel extremely tired, lightheaded, dizzy, sweaty, nauseated, or short of breath, you need to see a doctor immediately. If you suspect that you or someone you know has taken an overdose of opioids, call 911 immediately. These side effects can also result from an overdose of opioids. This rarely happens to patients who have been taking opioid medications for a long time. This usually only occurs when the dose of medication is too high or it is increased too quickly. You may experience low blood pressure or slowed breathing while taking an opioid painkiller. These are some of the most common or important side effects: Slowed Breathing or Low Blood Pressure They can help you decide what will work best for you. Talk to your care team about these recommendations. There are a number of things you can do to manage the side effects of morphine sulfate. Possible Side Effects of Morphine Sulfate You should not drive or operate machinery while taking this medication until you know how it will affect you. This medication can cause dizziness, sleepiness, and confusion. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take. This medication can interact with other medications that depress the central nervous system like barbituates (including phenobarbital), tranquilizers (including Haldol®, Librium®, and Xanax ®), other narcotics, MAOI’s, cimetidine, and general anesthetic. It will continue to work for 2 to 4 hours. It will begin working to relieve pain almost instantly, although it reaches its peak effect in 5 to 10 minutes. When morphine is injected, it is immediately absorbed into the body. Your care provider will determine the exact dosage and dosing schedule. This type of morphine is given intravenously (into a vein). O-Pro: Portal for Oncology Professionals.Distress Screening Response Tools (DSRT).OncoPilot: Navigating the Cancer Journeyįind resources & tools for oncology healthcare professionals.Managing Practical and Emotional Concerns.Insurance, Legal, Employment & Financial Concerns.Support for Adolescent and Young Adults with Cancer.Sexual History & Human Papillomavirus (HPV).Medications, Health History and Cancer Risk.Environmental and Occupational Exposures (UV Exposure, Radon, Radiation).Learn about cancer, diagnosis, treatment, coping & survivorship Discover information about different types of cancer