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MORPHINE SULFATE
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Full Opioid Agonists [MoA] | MoA | All 74 members |
| Opioid Agonist [EPC] | EPC | All 109 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 076412-001 | MORPHINE SULFATE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | MORPHINE SULFATE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 076412-002 | MORPHINE SULFATE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | MORPHINE SULFATE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 076412-003 | MORPHINE SULFATE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | MORPHINE SULFATE | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 48 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 44 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 37 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 34 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 30 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 27 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 47 | REMS | Approved | June 18, 2026 | — |
| Supplement | 43 | REMS | Approved | October 31, 2024 | — |
| Supplement | 28 | REMS | Approved | September 18, 2018 | — |
| Supplement | 26 | REMS | Approved | May 26, 2017 | — |
| Supplement | 24 | Labeling | Approved | November 3, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 25 | REMS | Approved | September 30, 2016 | — |
| Supplement | 22 | REMS | Approved | April 20, 2016 | — |
| Supplement | 20 | REMS | Approved | June 26, 2015 | — |
| Supplement | 19 | Labeling | Approved | May 16, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 18 | REMS | Approved | August 19, 2014 | — |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | August 13, 2014 | — |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | June 25, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 14 | REMS | Approved | April 15, 2013 | — |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | July 9, 2012 | — |
| Supplement | 12 | REMS | Approved | July 9, 2012 | — |
| Supplement | 10 | Labeling | Approved | July 22, 2009 | — |
| Supplement | 5 | Labeling | Approved | September 30, 2004 | — |
| Supplement | 2 | Labeling | Approved | March 19, 2004 | — |
| Supplement | 3 | Labeling | Approved | November 6, 2003 | — |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | July 31, 2003 | — |
Review documents
- REMS · Original application · June 30, 2015
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260827). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE-THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF MORPHINE SULFATE EXTENDED-RELEASE TABLETS Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Because the use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 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 ( 5.1 )]. Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are essential. Instruct patients to swallow morphine sulfate extended-release tablets whole; crushing, chewing, or dissolving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets can cause rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of morphine [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Accidental Ingestion Accidental ingestion of even one dose of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of morphine [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. 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 morphine sulfate extended-release tablets and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Drug Interactions ( 7 )]. Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) 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 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Opioid Analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Healthcare providers are strongly encouraged to complete a REMS-compliant education program, and to counsel patients and caregivers on serious risks, safe use, and the importance of reading the Medication Guide with each prescription [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. WARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE-THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF MORPHINE SULFATE EXTENDED-RELEASE TABLETS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets expose users to risks of 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. (5.1) Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are essential. Instruct patients to swallow morphine sulfate extended-release tablets whole to avoid exposure to a potentially fatal dose of morphine. (5.2) Accidental ingestion of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of morphine. (5.2) 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. (5.3, 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 ne …
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingBoxed Warning 12/2023 Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 12/2023 Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.3 , 2.4 ) 12/2023 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) 12/2023 Boxed Warning 12/2025 Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 12/2025 Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 2.6 ) 12/2025 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3 , 5.12 , 5.14 ) 12/2025
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain that requires an opioid analgesic and that cannot be adequately treated with alternative options, including immediate-release opioids. Limitations of Use 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 morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are not indicated as an as-needed (prn) analgesic. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are an opioid agonist indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain that requires an opioid analgesic and that cannot be adequately treated with alternative options, including immediate-release opioids. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use 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 morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, 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 , 5.1 ) Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are not indicated as an as-needed (prn) analgesic. ( 1 )
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets should be prescribed only by healthcare providers who are knowledgeable about the use of extended-release/long-acting opioids and how to mitigate the associated risks. ( 2.1 ) Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 100 mg and 200 mg tablets, a single dose greater than 60 mg, or a total daily dose greater than 120 mg, are only for use in patients in whom tolerance to an opioid of comparable potency has been established. ( 2.1 ) Patients considered opioid-tolerant are those taking, for one week or longer, at least 60 mg of morphine per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg of oral oxycodone per day, 8 mg of oral hydromorphone per day, 25 mg oral oxymorphone per day, 60 mg oral hydrocodone per day, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid. ( 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 morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 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. ( 2.1 , 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 , 5.1 ) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially when initiating and following dosage increases with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets. Consider this risk when selecting an initial dose and when making dose adjustments. ( 2.1 , 5.2 ) Instruct patients to swallow morphine sulfate extended-release tablets intact and not to cut, break, chew, crush, or dissolve morphine sulfate extended-release tablets (risk of potentially fatal dose). ( 2.1 , 5.1 ) Discuss opioid overdose reversal agents and options for acquiring them with the patient and/or caregiver, both when initiating and renewing treatment with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, especially if the patient has additional risk factors for overdose, or close contacts at risk for exposure and overdose. ( 2.2 , 5.1 , 5.2, 5.3) Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are administered orally once every 8 or 12 hours. (2.3) For patients who are not opioid tolerant, initiate with 15 mg tablets orally every 8 to 12 hours. (2.3) Periodically reassess patients receiving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets to evaluate the continued need for opioid analgesics to maintain pain control, for the signs or symptoms of adverse reactions, and for the development of addiction, abuse, or misuse. (2.4) Do not rapidly reduce or abruptly discontinue morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in a physically dependent patient because rapid reduction or abrupt discontinuation of opioid analgesics has resulted in serious withdrawal symptoms, uncontrolled pain, and suicide. ( 2.5 , 5.14 ) 2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Instructions Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets should be prescribed by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about the use of extended-release/long-acting opioids and how to mitigate the associated risks. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 100 mg and 200 mg tablets, a single dose greater than 60 mg, or a total daily dose greater than 120 mg, are only for use in patients in whom tolerance to an opioid of comparable potency has been established. Patients considered opioid-tolerant are those taking, for one week or longer, at least 60 mg morphine per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg oral oxycodone per day, 8 mg oral hydromorphone daily, 25 mg oral oxymorphone per day, 60 mg oral hydrocodone per day, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration of time consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see Warni …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 15 mg Round, blue convex tablets, with one side debossed and the other side debossed “15” Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 30 mg Round, purple convex tablets, with one side debossed and the other side debossed “30” Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 60 mg Round, orange convex tablets, with one side debossed and the other side debossed “60” Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 100 mg Round, gray convex tablets, with one side debossed and the other side debossed “100” Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 200 mg Capsule-shaped, green convex tablets, with one side debossed and the other side debossed “200” Extended-release tablets: 15 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg ( 3 ) Boxed M Boxed M Boxed M Boxed M Boxed M
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with: Significant respiratory depression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or use of MAOIs within the last 14 days [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 ), Drug Interactions ( 7 )] Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] Hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to morphine [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] Significant respiratory depression ( 4 ) Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the 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 to morphine ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS 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 OIH is suspected, carefully consider appropriately decreasing the dose of the current opioid analgesic, or opioid rotation. ( 5.6 ) Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression in Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease or in Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients : Regularly evaluate, particularly during initiation and titration. ( 5.7 ) Adrenal Insufficiency : If diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement of corticosteroids, and wean patient off of the opioid. ( 5.9 ) Severe Hypotension : Regularly evaluate during dosage initiation and titration. Avoid use in patients with circulatory shock. ( 5.10 ) 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 morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in patients with impaired consciousness or coma. ( 5.11 ) 5.1 Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets contain morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, morphine sulfate extended-release tablets expose its users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse. Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed morphine sulfate extended-release tablets. Addiction can occur at recommended doses and if the drug is misused or abused. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. In postmarketing studies, addiction, abuse, misuse, and fatal and non-fatal opioid overdose were observed in patients with long-term opioid use [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2) ] . Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, and reassess all patients receiving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets for development of these behaviors and conditions. Risks are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol abuse or addiction) or mental illness (e.g., major depression). The potential for these risks should not, however, prevent the proper management of pain in any given patient. Patients at increased risk may be prescribed opioids such as morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks of proper use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets along with frequent reevaluation for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse. Consider recommending or prescribing an opioid overdose reversal agent [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Abuse or misuse of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets by crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product will result in the uncontrolled delivery of morphine and can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage ( 10 )] . Opioids are sought for nonmedical use and are subject to diversion from legitimate prescribed use. Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets. Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on careful storage of the drug during the course of treatment and proper disposal of unused drug. Contact local state professional licensing board or state-controlled substances authority for information on how to prevent and detect abuse or diversion of this product. 5.2 Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of opioids, even when used as recommended. Respiratory depression, if not immediately recognized and tr …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 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 Benzodiazepine or Other CNS Depressants [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] 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 )] Most common adverse reactions (>10%): constipation, nausea, and sedation. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Mallinckrodt at 1-800-778-7898 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may increase the risk of serious adverse reactions such as those observed with other opioid analgesics, including respiratory depression, apnea, respiratory arrest, circulatory depression, hypotension, or shock [see Overdosage (10) ] . Most Frequently Observed Reactions In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets were constipation, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dysphoria, and euphoric mood. Some of these effects seem to be more prominent in ambulatory patients and in those not experiencing severe pain. Less Frequently Observed Reactions Cardiovascular disorders: tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations Eye disorders: visual impairment, vision blurred, diplopia, miosis Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia General disorders and administration site conditions: chills, feeling abnormal, edema, edema peripheral, weakness Hepatobiliary disorders: biliary colic Metabolism and nutrition disorders: anorexia Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: muscle rigidity, muscle twitching Nervous system disorders: presyncope, syncope, headache, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movements, convulsion, intracranial pressure increased, taste alteration, paresthesia, nystagmus Psychiatric disorders: agitation, mood altered, anxiety, depression, abnormal dreams, hallucination, disorientation, insomnia Renal and urinary disorders: urinary retention, urinary hesitation, antidiuretic effects Reproductive system and breast disorders: reduced libido and/or potency Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: laryngospasm Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pruritus, urticaria, rash Vascular disorders: flushing, hypotension, hypertension 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets. Because these reactions are 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. Amenorrhea, asthenia, bronchospasm, confusional state, drug hypersensitivity, fatigue, hyperalgesia, hypertonia, ileus, increased hepatic enzymes, intestinal obstruction, lethargy, malaise, pulmonary edema, thinking disturbances, somnolence, and vertigo. 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 …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 1 includes clinically significant drug interactions with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets. Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 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 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . 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. Inform patients and caregivers of this potential interaction and educate them on the signs and symptoms of respiratory depression (including sedation). If concomitant use is warranted, consider recommending or prescribing an opioid overdose reversal agent [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.5 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3 )] . Examples: Benzodiazepines and other sedative hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, 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, frequently evaluate the patient, particularly during treatment initiation and dose adjustment. Discontinue morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 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 affect the serotonin neurotransmitter system (e.g., mirtazapine, trazodone, tramadol), certain muscle relaxants (i.e., cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone), monoamine oxidase (MAO) 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 (5.8) ] . Intervention: Do not use morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment. Examples: phenelzine, tranylcypromine, linezolid Mixed Agonist/Antagonist and Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics Clinical Impact: May reduce the analgesic effect of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 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: Because respiratory depression may be greater than otherwise expected, decrease the dosage of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets and/or the muscle relaxant as necessary. Due to the risk of respiratory depression with concomitant use of skeletal muscle relaxants and opioids, consider recommending or prescribing an opioid overdose reversal agent [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.3 )] . Examples: cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone Cimetidine Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of cimetidine can potentiate morphine effects and increase risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Intervention: Evaluate patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dosage of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets and/or cimetidine as necessary. Diuretics Clinical I …
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy : May cause fetal harm. ( 8.1 ) Lactation : Not recommended. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy may cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . There are no available data with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. 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 to 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 ( 5.4 )] . Labor or Delivery Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic 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. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are not recommended for use in pregnant women during or immediately prior to labor, when use of shorter-acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. Opioid analgesics, including morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, can prolong labor through actions which 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 dilation, 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 the first trimester of pregnancy and 448 women exposed to morphine at any time durin …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 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 Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are for oral use and contain morphine sulfate, an opioid agonist. Each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients common to all strengths: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, silicone dioxide, titanium dioxide, and triacetine. The tablet strengths describe the amount of morphine per tablet as the pentahydrated sulfate salt (morphine sulfate USP). The 15 mg tablets also contain: polyethylene glycol, polydextrose, and FD&C Blue No. 2. The 30 mg tablets also contain: polyethylene glycol, polydextrose, FD&C Blue No. 2, and D&C Red No. 7. The 60 mg tablets also contain: polyethylene glycol, polydextrose, FD&C Yellow No. 6, and iron oxide red. The 100 mg tablets also contain: iron oxide black. The 200 mg tablets also contain: polyethylene glycol, FD&C Blue No. 1, and D&C Yellow No. 10 Lake. Morphine sulfate 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 pK b is 7.9 for the tertiary nitrogen (mostly ionized at pH 7.4). Its molecular weight is 758.83 and its structural formula is: Structural formula
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 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 re-establishment 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 opioid overdose, administer an opioid overdose reversal agent such as naloxone or nalmefene. Because the duration of reversal would be expected to be less than the duration of action of morphine in morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, carefully monitor the patient until spontaneous respiration is reliably reestablished. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets will continue to release morphine and add to the morphine load for 24 to 48 hours or longer following ingestion, necessitating prolonged monitoring. 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 Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets are supplied as follows: 15 mg - round, blue convex tablet, debossed on one side and debossed “15” on the other. Bottles of 100 ................................. NDC 0406-8315-01 Unit Dose (10 x 10)......................... NDC 0406-8315-62 30 mg - round, purple convex tablet, debossed on one side and debossed “30” on the other. Bottles of 100 ................................. NDC 0406-8330-01 Unit Dose (10 x 10)......................... NDC 0406-8330-62 60 mg - round, orange convex tablet, debossed on one side and debossed “60” on the other. Bottles of 100 ................................. NDC 0406-8380-01 Unit Dose (10 x 10)......................... NDC 0406-8380-62 100 mg - round, gray convex tablet, debossed on one side and debossed “100” on the other. Bottles of 100 ................................. NDC 0406-8390-01 Unit Dose (10 x 10)......................... NDC 0406-8390-62 200 mg - capsule-shaped, green convex tablet, debossed on one side and debossed “200” on the other. Bottles of 100 ................................. NDC 0406-8320-01 Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store morphine sulfate extended-release tablets securely and dispose of properly [see Patient Counseling Information (17) ] . Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container. Boxed M Boxed M Boxed M Boxed M Boxed M
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed 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.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0406-8315-01 | 0406-8315 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (0406-8315-01) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8315-23 | 0406-8315 | SpecGx LLC | 1 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8315-23) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8315-62 | 0406-8315 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8315-62) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8320-01 | 0406-8320 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (0406-8320-01) | July 3, 2003 |
| 0406-8330-01 | 0406-8330 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (0406-8330-01) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8330-23 | 0406-8330 | SpecGx LLC | 1 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8330-23) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8330-62 | 0406-8330 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8330-62) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8380-01 | 0406-8380 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (0406-8380-01) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8380-23 | 0406-8380 | SpecGx LLC | 1 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8380-23) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8380-62 | 0406-8380 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8380-62) | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8390-01 | 0406-8390 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (0406-8390-01) | July 3, 2003 |
| 0406-8390-23 | 0406-8390 | SpecGx LLC | 1 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8390-23) | July 3, 2003 |
| 0406-8390-62 | 0406-8390 | SpecGx LLC | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (0406-8390-62) | July 3, 2003 |
| 0406-8315 | 0406-8315 | SpecGx LLC | — | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8320 | 0406-8320 | SpecGx LLC | — | July 3, 2003 |
| 0406-8330 | 0406-8330 | SpecGx LLC | — | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8380 | 0406-8380 | SpecGx LLC | — | July 31, 2003 |
| 0406-8390 | 0406-8390 | SpecGx LLC | — | July 3, 2003 |
Sources for 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 |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.