Morphine

Morphine (INN), the principal active agent in opium, is a powerful opioid analgesic drug. Like other opiates, morphine acts directly on the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain, and at synapses of the arcuate nucleus, in particular. Side effects include impairment of mental performance, euphoria, drowsiness, lethargy, and blurred vision. It also decreases hunger, inhibits the cough reflex, and produces constipation. Morphine is usually highly addictive, and tolerance and physical and psychological dependence develop quickly. Patients on morphine often report insomnia and nightmares.

Legal classification

In the United Kingdom, morphine is listed as a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Related Topics:
United Kingdom - Misuse of Drugs Act 1971

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In the United States, morphine is classified as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act.

Related Topics:
Schedule II - Controlled Substances Act

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Internationally, morphine is a Schedule I drug under the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugshttp://www.incb.org/pdf/e/list/yellow.pdf.

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