How does it work?
Morphine belongs to a group of medicines called opioids. Opioids mimic the effects of naturally occurring pain reducing chemicals (endorphins). They combine with the opioid receptors in the brain and block the transmission of pain signals.
Nausea and vomiting are common side-effects of morphine, and as a result cyclizine tartrate is included in this preparation to reduce the incidence of these effects occuring.
Cyclizine belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines. The exact mechanism by which cyclizine tartrate prevents nausea and vomiting is not fully understood. It is believed that these medicines block histamine receptors which are found in various places in the body, including an area in the brain known as the vomiting centre. The binding of cyclizine to these receptors results in the prevention of the brain sending nerve signals to the stomach that would normally result in the action of vomiting. Cyclizine is also responsible for tightening the muscles at the entrance to the stomach which physically helps to prevent vomiting.
This preparation is used to relieve moderate to severe pain associated with a variety of medical and surgical conditions, in which the relief of nausea and vomiting is needed.
What is it used for?
Moderate to severe pain
Warning!
This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided.
Tolerance and dependence readily occur to this medicine. Tolerance means that less effect is achieved from the same dose. Dependence means that the patient finds it very difficult to stop using the medicine. Abrupt withdrawal may result in serious problems.
Use with caution in
Asthma
Diabetes mellitus
Elderly people
Enlarged prostate gland
Glaucoma
Hypothyroidism
Lack of production of natural steroid hormones from the adrenal gland (adrenocortical insufficiency)
Obstruction of the stomach or intestines
Reduced activity of the pituitary gland (hypopituitarism)
Reduced blood flow to vital internal organs (shock)
Severe heart failure
Tumour of the adrenal gland (phaeochromocytoma)
Weak or debilitated people
Not to be used in
Acute asthma attack
Biliary and renal tract spasm
Children under 12 years of age
Excessive bronchial secretions
Head injury
Heart failure caused by lung disease
Inflammation of the bowel and back passage
Intoxication induced by the rapid ingestion of alcoholic drinks (acute alcoholism)
Moderate to severely decreased kidney function
Moderately decreased kidney function
Severe liver disease
Severely decreased liver function
Slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression)
This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.
If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers as it suppresses lactation. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
Side effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Constipation
Blurred vision
Difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention)
Drowsiness
Slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression)
Restlessness
Nausea and vomiting
A drop in blood pressure that occurs when going from lying down to sitting or standing, which results in dizziness and lightheadedness (postural hypotension)
Constriction of the pupil (miosis)
Dry mouth, nose and throat
Skin rashes
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
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