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What Are The Side Effects Of Morphine Patches?
Question: Have broken ribs a week ago. The hospital suggested morphine patches as a last resort to help ease chronic pain. What are the side effects and how many patches can I use before I become addicted? Thank you.
Brief Answer:
See below, morphine patches should be used cautiously
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
It is not usual to prescribe patches unless there are more than 3 broken ribs in a row. Most such injuries can be treated with nonsteroid painkillers. Morphine patch in this case should be used in small dosage and for a short period and then there is no risk of addiction and side effects should be minor. You may use 5 mcg/hour patch for 5 days after consultation with your local doctor. Nausea, drowsiness or headache may occur but rarely. However, driving should be avoided.
Wish you good health. Regards
See below, morphine patches should be used cautiously
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
It is not usual to prescribe patches unless there are more than 3 broken ribs in a row. Most such injuries can be treated with nonsteroid painkillers. Morphine patch in this case should be used in small dosage and for a short period and then there is no risk of addiction and side effects should be minor. You may use 5 mcg/hour patch for 5 days after consultation with your local doctor. Nausea, drowsiness or headache may occur but rarely. However, driving should be avoided.
Wish you good health. Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
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