What Does Taking Morphine Feel Like?

Morphine is a potent opioid medication used primarily for pain relief. Its effects on the body and mind can be profound but are subject to individual variations. This article explores the common experiences and sensations one might feel when taking morphine, as reported by those who have used it, as well as the potential risks associated with its use.

Initial Side Effects and Adaptation

When you first take morphine, the initial effects are often steady and predictable. Many individuals report feeling drowsy or nausea, and these symptoms typically subside after just a few days as the body adjusts to the drug.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

13-year-old Cancer Patient

When a 13-year-old cancer patient, who had been put on morphine injections, took the drug, she experienced a series of notable side effects:

Sedation and Drowsiness: Within minutes, she fell into a drowsy state, similar to feeling like she was about to "liftoff" in a Saturn rocket for about 10 seconds. Urinary Retention and Constipation: In a few hours, she also experienced urinary retention and constipation. Respiratory Depression: Over the course of a day, her physician injected a higher dose for pain relief, leading to respiratory depression, bradycardia, and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, these adverse effects led to opiate overdose and she passed away.

Personal Experiences

A few personal experiences provide additional insights into the effects of morphine:

Extracting Wisdom Teeth

One individual felt that extracting wisdom teeth while under the influence of morphine was akin to experiencing a sensation of warmth spreading throughout the body, similar to drinking maple syrup. The effect was perfect and provided quick pain relief, though it left the person feeling sleepy. The feeling was merciful.

Post-Surgery Experience

Another person reported receiving an injection of morphine in an ambulance, resulting in a brief feeling of terrific well-being that lasted for a few seconds. In the hospital, the individual was given morphine pills for two weeks before undergoing skin grafts. Despite taking a higher dose over the two weeks, the person felt no significant effects, possibly due to a low initial dose or rapid tolerance.

General Experience Descriptions

Subjective Feelings

The most intense pain can be replaced by a feeling of warmth and painless well-being, especially if the pain has been present for a long time. Some people report drifting into a deep sleep, similar to that of an old dog or baby, waking refreshed and renewed.

Discontinued Use and Caution

One person who tried morphine after having their wisdom teeth removed vividly remembers the feeling of being almost addicted after just one experience. They emphasize the importance of using the drug only when medically necessary and warn against taking it unless absolutely needed.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Morphine is a powerful tool for pain management, offering profound relief for those dealing with severe pain. However, it comes with risks, such as sedation, urinary retention, constipation, and respiratory depression. Familiarize yourself with the potential side effects and always use the drug under medical supervision. Recognize that morphine can be dangerous, especially for those with a history of addiction. For those with a risk of addiction, seek alternatives and consult with medical professionals to ensure your safety.