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Morphine Sulfate

Prescription NDA Schedule CII RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Morphine Sulfate
Generic name
Morphine Sulfate
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route
Intravenous
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Hospira, Inc.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
CII
Active ingredients
10
NDC product codes
19
Packages
15
Data completeness
83% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Morphine Sulfate .5 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 1 mg/.5mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 1 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 10 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 2 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 4 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 5 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 50 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 62.5 mg/mL 891881 View
Morphine Sulfate 8 mg/mL 891881 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route of administration
Intravenous
Presentations
34

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Full Opioid Agonists [MoA] MoA All 74 members
Opioid Agonist [EPC] EPC All 109 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
204223
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
October 30, 2013
Sponsor
FRESENIUS KABI USA
Products on application
5
Submissions recorded
10
Products approved under application 204223.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
204223-001 MORPHINE SULFATE SOLUTION MORPHINE SULFATE Prescription — RLD RS
204223-002 MORPHINE SULFATE SOLUTION MORPHINE SULFATE Prescription — RLD RS
204223-003 MORPHINE SULFATE SOLUTION MORPHINE SULFATE Discontinued — RLD
204223-004 MORPHINE SULFATE SOLUTION MORPHINE SULFATE Discontinued — RLD
204223-005 MORPHINE SULFATE SOLUTION MORPHINE SULFATE Prescription — RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
—
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Patents and exclusivity

Source: Orange Book
Patent listings submitted under 21 U.S.C. 355(b)(1) and (c)(2).
Patent Expires Product Substance Use code Submitted
9192608 March 12, 2034 001 No U-43 December 4, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 001 No U-55 December 4, 2015
9248229 March 12, 2034 001 No February 17, 2016
9072781 March 12, 2034 001 No July 13, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 002 No U-43 December 4, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 002 No U-55 December 4, 2015
9248229 March 12, 2034 002 No February 17, 2016
9072781 March 12, 2034 002 No July 13, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 003 No U-55 December 4, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 003 No U-43 December 4, 2015
9072781 March 12, 2034 003 No July 13, 2015
9248229 March 12, 2034 003 No February 17, 2016
9192608 March 12, 2034 004 No U-43 December 4, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 004 No U-55 December 4, 2015
9072781 March 12, 2034 004 No July 13, 2015
9248229 March 12, 2034 004 No February 17, 2016
9192608 March 12, 2034 005 No U-55 December 4, 2015
9192608 March 12, 2034 005 No U-43 December 4, 2015
9248229 March 12, 2034 005 No February 17, 2016
9072781 March 12, 2034 005 No July 13, 2015

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 204223.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 29 Labeling Approved May 29, 2026 Standard
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved December 22, 2025 Standard
Supplement 25 Labeling Approved December 15, 2023 Standard
Supplement 15 Labeling Approved October 7, 2019 Standard
Supplement 7 Labeling Approved January 27, 2017 Standard
Supplement 6 Labeling Approved December 16, 2016 Standard
Supplement 4 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 3, 2015 Standard
Supplement 3 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 16, 2014 Standard
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 23, 2014 Standard
Original application 1 Type 5 - New Formulation or New Manufacturer Approved October 30, 2013 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · June 1, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · January 6, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · December 29, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · December 19, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · December 18, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · October 9, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · October 9, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · December 21, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · December 21, 2016
  • 0 · Original application · March 6, 2014
  • 0 · Original application · March 6, 2014
  • 0 · Original application · November 6, 2013
  • 0 · Original application · October 31, 2013

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260731). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260731 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260421 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20251231

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE-THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF PRESERVATIVE-FREE MORPHINE SULFATE INJECTION Risks with Neuraxial Administration Single-dose neuraxial administration may result in acute or delayed respiratory depression up to 24 hours. Because of the risk of severe adverse reactions when preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is administered by the epidural or intrathecal route of administration, patients must be observed in a fully equipped and staffed environment for at least 24 hours after the initial dose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Because the use of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection exposes patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death, assess each patient’s risk prior to prescribing and reassess all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors and conditions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection are essential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Risks From Concomitant Use With Benzodiazepines Or Other CNS Depressants Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Drug Interactions (7) ] . Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) Advise pregnant women using opioids for an extended period of time of the risk of N eonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome , which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. Ensure that management by neonatology experts will be available at delivery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . WARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE-THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF PRESERVATIVE-FREE MORPHINE SULFATE INJECTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Single-dose neuraxial administration may result in acute or delayed respiratory depression up to 24 hours. Because of the risk of severe adverse reactions when preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is administered by the epidural or intrathecal route of administration, patients must be observed in a fully equipped and staffed environment for at least 24 hours after the initial dose. ( 5.1 ) • Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection exposes users to risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Assess patient’s risk before prescribing and reassess regularly for these behaviors and conditions. ( 5.2 ) • Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection are essential. ( 5.3 ) • Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. ( 5.4 , 7 ) • Advise pregnant women using opioids for an extended period of time of the risk of Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. Ensure that management by neonatology experts will be available at delivery. ( 5.5 )

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Boxed Warning 12/2025 Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 12/2025 Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.6 ) 12/2025 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.3 , 5.4 , 5.14 , 5.16 ) 12/2025

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is indicated for: • the management of pain severe enough to require use of an opioid analgesic by intravenous administration, and for which alternative treatments are not expected to be adequate. • the epidural or intrathecal management of pain without attendant loss of motor, sensory, or sympathetic function. Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is an opioid agonist, indicated for: 1. the management of pain severe enough to require use of an opioid analgesic by intravenous administration and for which alternative treatments are not expected to be adequate. 2. the epidural or intrathecal management of pain without attendant loss of motor, sensory, or sympathetic function. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is not for use in Continuous Microinfusion Devices. Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death, which can occur at any dosage or duration and persist over the course of therapy, reserve opioid analgesics, including preservative-free morphine sulfate injection for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective, not tolerated or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.‎ ( 1 , 5.2 ) Limitations of Use Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is not for use in Continuous Microinfusion Devices. Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death , which can occur at any dosage or duration and persist over the course of therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] , reserve opioid analgesics, including preservative-free morphine sulfate injection for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective, not tolerated or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about the use of opioids and how to mitigate the associated risks. ( 2.1 ) • Should be administered by or under the direction of a physician experienced in the techniques of epidural or intrathecal administration. ( 2.1 ) • Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration of time consistent with individual patient treatment goals. Reserve titration to higher doses of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection for patients in whom lower doses are insufficiently effective and in whom the expected benefits of using a higher dose opioid clearly outweigh the substantial risks. ( 2.2 , 5 ) • Initiate the dosing regimen for each patient individually, taking into account the patient’s underlying cause and severity of pain, prior analgesic treatment and response, and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse. ( 2.1 , 5.2 ) • Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially when initiating and following dosage increases with preservative-free morphine sulfate injection. Consider this risk when selecting an initial dose and when making dose adjustments. ( 2 , 5.3 ) • Dosage for Intravenous Administration : 2 mg to 10 mg/70 kg of body weight. ( 2.3 ) • Dosage for Epidural Administration : Initial injection of 5 mg in the lumbar region may provide satisfactory pain relief for up to 24 hours. If adequate pain relief is not achieved within one hour, carefully administer incremental doses of 1 to 2 mg at intervals sufficient to assess effectiveness. Administer no more than 10 mg/24 hr. ( 2.4 ) • Dosage for Intrathecal Administration : A single injection of 0.2 to 1 mg may provide satisfactory pain relief for up to 24 hours. Repeated intrathecal injections of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection are not recommended. ( 2.5 ) • Periodically reassess patients receiving preservative-free morphine sulfate injection to evaluate the continued need for opioid analgesics to maintain pain control, for the signs or symptoms of adverse reactions, and the development of addiction, abuse or misuse. ( 2.6 ) • Do not rapidly reduce or abruptly discontinue preservative-free morphine sulfate injection abruptly in a physically-dependent patient. ( 2.6 , 5.16 ) 2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Instructions Do Not Use Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection in Continuous Microinfusion Devices. Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection should be administered by or under the direction of a physician experienced in the techniques of epidural or intrathecal administration and familiar with the patient management problems associated with epidural or intrathecal drug administration and the labeling, and should take place only in settings where adequate patient monitoring is possible. • Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about the use of opioids and how to mitigate the associated risks. • Because of the risk of delayed respiratory depression, patients should be observed in a fully equipped and staffed environment for at least 24 hours. Respiratory depression (both early and late onset) has occurred more frequently following intrathecal administration than epidural administration. • Because epidural administration has been associated with less potential for immediate or late adverse effects than intrathecal administration, the epidural route should be used whenever possible. • For safety reasons, it is recommended that administration of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection by the epidural or intrathecal routes be limited to the lumbar area. • Have resuscitative equipment and an opioid overdose reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) immediately available for the management of respiratory depression as well as complications which might result from inadvertent int …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution of morphine sulfate, free of antioxidants and preservatives to be administered by the intravenous route, available in the following dosage forms and strengths: • Single-dose ‎CarpujectTM Cartridges to be used ONLY with CarpujectTM Holders 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, and 15 mg/mL • Single-dose ‎NexJectTM Syringes 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL • Injectable for intravenous administration, CarpujectTM Single-dose Cartridges with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System for use ONLY with the Carpuject Holder: 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, and 15 ‎mg/mL. ( 3 )‎ • Injectable for intravenous administration, NexJectTM Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock: 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL. ( 3 )‎

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is contraindicated in patients with: • Significant respiratory depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or use of MAOIs within the last 14 days [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) , Drug Interactions (7) ] • Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] • Hypersensitivity to morphine (e.g., anaphylaxis) [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] Neuraxial administration of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is contraindicated in patients with: • Infection at the injection microinfusion site [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Concomitant anticoagulant therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Uncontrolled bleeding diathesis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • The presence of any other concomitant therapy or medical condition which would render epidural or intrathecal administration of medication especially hazardous. Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is contraindicated in patients with: • Significant respiratory depression ( 4 ) • Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting in absence of resuscitative equipment ( 4 ) • Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or use of MAOIs within the last 14 days ( 4 ) • Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus ( 4 ) • Hypersensitivity or intolerance to morphine ( 4 ) Neuraxial administration of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is contraindicated in patients with: • Infection at the injection microinfusion site ( 4 ) • Concomitant anticoagulant therapy ( 4 ) • Uncontrolled bleeding diathesis ( 4 ) • The presence of any other concomitant therapy or medical condition which would render epidural or intrathecal administration of medication especially hazardous. ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Risk of Tolerance and Myoclonic Activity : Monitor patients for unusual acceleration of neuraxial morphine, which may cause myoclonic-like spasm of lower extremities. Detoxification may be required. ( 5.6 ) • Chest Wall Rigidity : Rapid intravenous administration may result in chest wall rigidity. ( 5.7 ) • Opioid Induced Hyperalgesia and Allodynia : Opioid Induced Hyperalgesia (OIH) occurs when an opioid analgesic paradoxically causes an increase in pain, or an increase in sensitivity to pain. If a patient is suspected to be experiencing OIH, carefully consider appropriately decreasing the dose of the current opioid analgesic, or opioid rotation (safely switching the patient to a different opioid moiety). ( 5.8 ) • Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression in Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease or in Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients : Monitor closely, particularly during initiation and titration. ( 5.9 ) • Adrenal Insufficiency : If diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement of corticosteroids, and wean patient off of the opioid. ( 5.11 ) • Severe Hypotension : Monitor during dosage initiation and titration. Avoid use of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection in patients with circulatory shock. ( 5.12 ) • Risks of Use in Patients with Increased Intracranial Pressure, Brain Tumors, Head Injury, or Impaired Consciousness: Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression. Avoid use of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection in patients with impaired consciousness or coma. ( 5.13 ) 5.1 Risks with Neuraxial Administration Control of pain by neuraxial opioid delivery is always accompanied by considerable risk to the patient and requires a high level of skill to be successfully accomplished. The task of treating these patients must be undertaken by experienced clinical teams, well-versed in patient selection, evolving technology and emerging standards of care. In the case of epidural or intrathecal administration, preservative-free morphine sulfate injection should be administered by or under the direction of a physician experienced in the techniques and familiar with the patient management problems associated with epidural or intrathecal drug administration. The physician should be familiar with patient conditions (such as infection at the injection site, bleeding diathesis, anticoagulant therapy, etc.) which call for special evaluation of the benefit versus risk potential. Because epidural administration has been associated with less potential for immediate or late adverse effects than intrathecal administration, the epidural route should be used whenever possible. For safety reasons, it is recommended that administration of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection by the epidural or intrathecal routes be limited to the lumbar area. Thoracic epidural administration has been shown to dramatically increase the incidence of early and late respiratory depression even with doses of 1 to 2 mg. Because of the risk of severe adverse effects when the epidural or intrathecal route of administration is employed, patients must be observed in a fully equipped and staffed environment for at least 24 hours after the initial dose. The facility must be equipped to resuscitate patients with severe opiate overdosage, and the personnel must be familiar with the use and limitations of specific opioid overdose reversal agents (naloxone, naltrexone) in such cases. Parenteral administration of narcotics in patients receiving epidural or intrathecal morphine may result in overdosage. 5.2 Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, preservative-free morphine sulfate injection exposes users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9) ] . Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed preservative-free mo …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described, or described in greater detail, in other sections: • Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Interactions with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • Cardiovascular Instability [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] • Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia and Allodynia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] • Adrenal Insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] • Severe Hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] • Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] • Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13 )] • Withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14 )] The following adverse reactions associated with the use of morphine were identified in clinical studies or postmarketing reports. Because some of these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Serious adverse reactions associated with Morphine Sulfate Injection included respiratory depression, apnea, and to a lesser degree, circulatory depression, respiratory arrest, shock, and cardiac arrest. Rarely, anaphylactoid reactions have been reported when morphine or other phenanthrene alkaloids of opium are administered intravenously. The most frequently observed adverse reactions included sedation, lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diaphoresis. Other possible adverse reactions include: Central Nervous System : Euphoria, dysphoria, weakness, headache, agitation, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movements, visual disturbances, transient hallucinations and disorientation. Gastrointestinal : Constipation, biliary tract spasm. Cardiovascular : Tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitation, faintness, syncope, and orthostatic hypotension. Genitourinary : Oliguria and urinary retention; an antidiuretic effect has been reported. Allergic : Pruritus, urticaria, and skin rashes. Anaphylactoid reactions have been reported following intravenous administration. Other : Opioid-induced histamine release may be responsible for the flushing of the face, diaphoresis, and pruritus often seen with these drugs. Wheals and urticaria at the site of injection are probably related to histamine release. Local tissue irritation, pain and induration have been reported following repeated subcutaneous injection. Morphine may alter temperature regulation in susceptible individuals and will depress the cough reflex. Androgen deficiency : Cases of androgen deficiency have occurred with use of opioids for an extended period of time [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Hyperalgesia and Allodynia: Cases of hyperalgesia and allodynia have been reported with opioid therapy of any duration [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Anaphylaxis : Anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in Morphine Sulfate Injection. Serotonin syndrome : Cases of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, have been reported during concomitant use of opioids with serotonergic drugs. Adrenal insufficiency : Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use. Hypoglycemia : Cases of hypoglycemia have been reported in patients taking opioids. Most reports were in patients with at least one predisposing risk factor (e.g., diabetes). Opioid-induced esophageal dysfunction (OIED) : Cases of OIED have been reported in patients taking opioids and may occur more frequently in patients taking higher doses of opioids, and/or in patients taking opioids longer term [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] . Adverse Reactions from Observational Studie …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 1 includes clinically significant drug interactions with preservative-free morphine sulfate injection. Table 1 Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Preservative-Free Morphine Sulfate Injection Benzodiazepines and Other Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants Clinical Impact: Due to additive pharmacologic effect, the concomitant use of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. The depressant effects of morphine are potentiated by the presence of other CNS depressants. Use of neuroleptics in conjunction with neuraxial morphine may increase the risk of respiratory depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Intervention: Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Examples: Benzodiazepines and other sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, psychotropic drugs, antihistamines, neuroleptics, gabapentinoids (gabapentin or pregabalin), other opioids, alcohol. Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of opioids with other drugs that affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter system has resulted in serotonin syndrome. Intervention: If concomitant use is warranted, carefully observe the patient, particularly during treatment initiation and dose adjustment. Discontinue preservative-free morphine sulfate injection if serotonin syndrome is suspected. Examples: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), triptans, 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, drugs that effect the serotonin neurotransmitter system (e.g., mirtazapine, trazodone, tramadol), certain muscle relaxants (i.e., cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (those intended to treat psychiatric disorders and also others, such as linezolid and intravenous methylene blue). Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Clinical Impact: MAOI interactions with opioids may manifest as serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity (e.g., respiratory depression, coma) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ]. Intervention: Do not use preservative-free morphine sulfate injection in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment. If urgent use of an opioid is necessary, use test doses and frequent titration of small doses of other opioids (such as oxycodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, hydrocodone, or buprenorphine) to treat pain while closely monitoring blood pressure and signs and symptoms of CNS and respiratory depression. Examples: Phenelzine, tranylcypromine, linezolid. Mixed Agonist/Antagonist and Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics Clinical Impact: May reduce the analgesic effect of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection and/or precipitate withdrawal symptoms. Intervention: Avoid concomitant use. Examples: Butorphanol, nalbuphine, pentazocine, buprenorphine. Muscle Relaxants Clinical Impact: Morphine may enhance the neuromuscular blocking action of skeletal muscle relaxants and produce an increased degree of respiratory depression. Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dosage of preservative-free morphine sulfate injection and/or the muscle relaxant as necessary. Examples: Cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone. Diuretics Clinical Impact: Opioids can reduce the efficacy of diuretics by inducing the release of antidiuretic hormone. Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of diminished diuresis and/or effects on blood pressure and increase the dosage of the diuretic as needed. Anticholinergic Drugs Clinical Impact: The concomitant use o …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pregnancy : May cause fetal harm. ( 8.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . Available data with preservative-free morphine sulfate injection in pregnant women are insufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. There are adverse outcomes reported with fetal exposure to opioid analgesics (see Clinical Considerations ) . Published studies with morphine use during pregnancy have not reported a clear association with morphine and major birth defects [see Human Data ] . In published animal reproduction studies, morphine administered subcutaneously during the early gestational period produced neural tube defects (i.e., exencephaly and cranioschisis) at 5 and 16 times the human daily dose of 60 mg based on body surface area (HDD) in hamsters and mice, respectively, lower fetal body weight and increased incidence of abortion at 0.4 times the HDD in the rabbit, growth retardation at 6 times the HDD in the rat, and axial skeletal fusion and cryptorchidism at 16 times the HDD in the mouse. Administration of morphine sulfate to pregnant rats during organogenesis and through lactation resulted in cyanosis, hypothermia, decreased brain weights, pup mortality, decreased pup body weights, and adverse effects on reproductive tissues at 3-4 times the HDD; and long-term neurochemical changes in the brain of offspring which correlate with altered behavioral responses that persist through adulthood at exposures comparable to and less than the HDD [see Animal Data ] . Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy for medical or nonmedical purposes can result in physical dependence in the neonate and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome shortly after birth. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome presents as irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. The onset, duration, and severity of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination of the drug by the newborn. Observe newborns for symptoms of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. Labor or Delivery Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and psychophysiologic effects in neonates. An opioid overdose reversal agent, such as naloxone or nalmefene, must be available for reversal of opioid induced respiratory depression in the neonate. Preservative-free morphine sulfate injection is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, when use of shorter-acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. Opioid analgesics, including preservative-free morphine sulfate injection, can prolong labor through actions that temporarily reduce the strength, duration, and frequency of uterine contractions. However, this effect is not consistent and may be offset by an increased rate of cervical dilatation, which tends to shorten labor. Monitor neonates exposed to opioid analgesics during labor for signs of excess sedation and respiratory depression. Data Human Data The results from a population-based prospective cohort, including 70 women exposed to morphine during th …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Morphine is a full opioid agonist and is relatively selective for the mu-opioid receptor, although it can bind to other opioid receptors at higher doses. The principal therapeutic action of morphine is analgesia. Like all full opioid agonists, there is no ceiling effect for analgesia with morphine. Clinically, dosage is titrated to provide adequate analgesia and may be limited by adverse reactions, including respiratory and CNS depression. The precise mechanism of the analgesic action is unknown. However, specific CNS opioid receptors for endogenous compounds with opioid-like activity have been identified throughout the brain and spinal cord and are thought to play a role in the analgesic effects of this drug.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is an opioid agonist, available in 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, and 15 mg/mL (1 mL fill in 2.5 mL CarpujectTM Single‐dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System) and 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL (1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJectTM Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock). When exposed to air it gradually loses water of hydration, and darkens on prolonged exposure to light. The chemical name is 7,8-Didehydro-4,5-epoxy-17-methyl-(5α,6α)-morphinan-3,6-diol sulfate (2: 1) (salt), pentahydrate, with the following chemical structure: (C 17 H 19 NO 3 ) 2 • H 2 SO 4 • 5H 2 O Molecular Weight is 758.83 Morphine sulfate USP is an odorless, white crystalline powder with a bitter taste. It has a solubility of 1 in 21 parts of water and 1 in 1000 parts of alcohol, but is practically insoluble in chloroform or ether. The octanol:water partition coefficient of morphine is 1.42 at physiologic pH and the pKa is 7.9 for the tertiary nitrogen (the majority is ionized at pH 7.4). Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution of morphine sulfate, free of antioxidants and preservatives to be administered by the intravenous route. For the single-dose CarpujectTM cartridges for intravenous administration : Each milliliter of sterile solution contains 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP and the following inactive ingredients: 0.2 mg edetate disodium, 0.4 mg citric acid for the 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg and 10 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP or 0.8 mg citric acid for the 15 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP, sodium chloride to adjust isotonicity and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust pH. The pH range is 2.5 to 4.0. For the single-dose NexJectTM syringes for intravenous administration : Each milliliter of sterile solution contains 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, or 10 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP and the following inactive ingredients: 0.2 mg edetate disodium, 0.4 mg citric acid for the 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, and 10 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP, sodium chloride to adjust isotonicity and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust pH. The pH range is 2.5 to 4.0. Chemical Structure

10 OVERDOSAGE Clinical Presentation Acute overdose with morphine can be manifested by respiratory depression, somnolence progressing to stupor or coma, skeletal muscle flaccidity, cold and clammy skin, constricted pupils, and, in some cases, pulmonary edema, bradycardia, hypotension, hypoglycemia, partial or complete airway obstruction, atypical snoring, and death. Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen with hypoxia in overdose situations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . Toxic leukoencephalopathy has been reported after opioid overdose and can present hours, days, or weeks after apparent recovery from the initial intoxication. Treatment of Overdose In case of overdose, priorities are the reestablishment of a patent and protected airway and institution of assisted or controlled ventilation, if needed. Employ other supportive measures (including oxygen and vasopressors) in the management of circulatory shock and pulmonary edema as indicated. Cardiac arrest or arrhythmias will require advanced life-support measures. For clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to morphine overdose, administer an opioid overdose reversal agent such as naloxone or nalmefene. As the duration of effect of naloxone is considerably shorter than that of epidural or intrathecal morphine, repeated administration may be necessary. Patients should be closely observed for evidence of renarcotization. Because the duration of opioid reversal is expected to be less than the duration of action of morphine in preservative-free morphine sulfate injection, particularly with epidural or intrathecal morphine, carefully monitor the patient until spontaneous respiration is reliably reestablished. If the response to an opioid overdose reversal agent is suboptimal or only brief in nature, administer additional reversal agent as directed by the product’s prescribing information. In an individual physically-dependent on opioids, administration of the recommended usual dosage of the opioid overdose reversal agent will precipitate an acute withdrawal syndrome. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms experienced will depend on the degree of physical dependence and the dose of the reversal agent administered. If a decision is made to treat serious respiratory depression in the physically-dependent patient, administration of the reversal agent should be initiated with care and by titration with smaller than usual doses of the reversal agent.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is supplied as a sterile solution in single-dose CarpujectTM cartridges for use ONLY with the CarpujectTM Holders ‎and NexJectTM prefilled syringes for intravenous administration, and available as follows: Unit of Sale Concentration (per total volume) NDC 0409-1890-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System 2 mg/mL NDC 0409-1891-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System 4 mg/mL NDC 0409-1892-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System 8 mg/mL NDC 0409-1893-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System 10 mg/mL NDC 0409-1894-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the CarpujectTM Syringe System 15 mg/mL NDC 0409-1890-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJectTM Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 2 mg/mL NDC 0409-1891-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJectTM Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 4 mg/mL NDC 0409-1892-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJectTM Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 8 mg/mL NDC 0409-1893-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJectTM Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 10 mg/mL CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridges with Luer Lock are packaged in a Slim-PakTM tamper detection package. Note that a needle is not included with CarpujectTM Single-dose cartridges and Nexject‎TM Single-dose Prefilled Syringes. Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature] until ready to use. PROTECT FROM LIGHT. DO NOT FREEZE. Contains no preservative or antioxidant. DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION. DO NOT HEAT-STERILIZE.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
120,590
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: MORPHINE SULFATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class I August 26, 2026 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC Labeling: Label Mixup: MicroVault labeled as Morphine 2 mg/1 mL, contains a Prefilled Syringe of Dilaudid 0.5 mg/0.5 mL. Ongoing
Class II October 6, 2021 Fresenius Kabi USA LLC Defective container: Cracked vials leading to lack of sterility assurance Terminated
Class II May 8, 2013 Hospira Inc. Lack of Assurance of Sterility: Loose crimp applied to the fliptop vial Terminated

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
81371-1062-1 81371-1062 Bond Pharmacy INC 125 mL in 1 BAG (81371-1062-1) May 3, 2021
63323-451-01 63323-451 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 BOX (63323-451-01) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (63323-451-00) April 10, 2018
63323-452-01 63323-452 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 BOX (63323-452-01) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (63323-452-00) April 10, 2018
63323-454-01 63323-454 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 BOX (63323-454-01) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (63323-454-00) April 10, 2018
76045-004-11 76045-004 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC 10 SYRINGE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (76045-004-11) / 1 mL in 1 SYRINGE, GLASS (76045-004-01) November 25, 2019
76045-005-11 76045-005 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC 10 SYRINGE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (76045-005-11) / 1 mL in 1 SYRINGE, GLASS (76045-005-01) November 25, 2019
76045-238-10 76045-238 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC 10 SYRINGE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (76045-238-10) / .5 mL in 1 SYRINGE, GLASS (76045-238-01) May 29, 2026
0409-1890-01 0409-1890 Hospira, Inc. 10 CARTRIDGE in 1 CARTON (0409-1890-01) / 1 mL in 1 CARTRIDGE (0409-1890-03) August 23, 2012
0409-1890-23 0409-1890 Hospira, Inc. 10 SYRINGE in 1 CELLO PACK (0409-1890-23) / 1 mL in 1 SYRINGE (0409-1890-13) January 11, 2021
0409-1891-01 0409-1891 Hospira, Inc. 10 CARTRIDGE in 1 CARTON (0409-1891-01) / 1 mL in 1 CARTRIDGE (0409-1891-03) August 7, 2012
0409-1893-23 0409-1893 Hospira, Inc. 10 SYRINGE in 1 CELLO PACK (0409-1893-23) / 1 mL in 1 SYRINGE (0409-1893-13) February 1, 2021
0409-1896-20 0409-1896 Hospira, Inc. 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-1896-20) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE November 20, 2023
0409-2022-01 0409-2022 Hospira, Inc. 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-2022-01) / 50 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE April 21, 2025
0409-3814-12 0409-3814 Hospira, Inc. 5 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (0409-3814-12) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (0409-3814-11) August 10, 2005
0409-3815-12 0409-3815 Hospira, Inc. 5 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (0409-3815-12) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (0409-3815-11) June 29, 2005
81371-1062 81371-1062 Bond Pharmacy INC — May 3, 2021
63323-451 63323-451 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC — April 10, 2018
63323-452 63323-452 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC — April 10, 2018
63323-454 63323-454 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC — April 10, 2018
63323-455 63323-455 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC — April 10, 2018
63323-458 63323-458 Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC — April 10, 2018
76045-004 76045-004 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC — October 30, 2013
76045-005 76045-005 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC — October 30, 2013
76045-006 76045-006 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC — October 30, 2013
76045-007 76045-007 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC — October 30, 2013
76045-008 76045-008 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC — October 30, 2013
76045-238 76045-238 Fresenius Kabi, USA LLC — October 30, 2013
0409-1890 0409-1890 Hospira, Inc. — August 23, 2012
0409-1891 0409-1891 Hospira, Inc. — August 7, 2012
0409-1893 0409-1893 Hospira, Inc. — August 20, 2012
0409-1896 0409-1896 Hospira, Inc. — November 20, 2023
0409-2022 0409-2022 Hospira, Inc. — April 21, 2025
0409-3814 0409-3814 Hospira, Inc. — August 10, 2005
0409-3815 0409-3815 Hospira, Inc. — June 29, 2005

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Enforcement FDA Recall records

Generated September 25, 2026 · 14 sections on this page.