Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules for the treatment of chronic, moderate-to-severe pain.
BACKGROUND
Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules (KADIAN) contain polymer-coated morphine sulfate pellets that are formulated to deliver sustained plasma morphine levels with minimal fluctuation. Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules, the only opioid formulation indicated in the US for both once- and twice-daily (every 12 and every 24 h) dosing, is approved in eight dosage strengths and is effective against pain from diverse sources in a variety of patient types. The formulation of morphine sulfate extended-release capsules allows flexible dosing options: capsules can be taken whole or the contents can be sprinkled on apple sauce or delivered via a gastrostomy tube. Morphine sulfate extended-release capsules have no immediate-release component and no components that would limit high doses.


CONCLUSIONS
The bioavailability of morphine sulfate extended-release capsules is not compromised when taken with food and dose dumping (immediate elevations in dose) does not occur when morphine sulfate extended-release capsules are taken concomitantly with alcohol. Nearly all patients taking morphine sulfate extended-release capsules for pain relief adhere to the recommended dosing frequency. The flexibility available with morphine sulfate extended-release capsules may offer clinical advantages for pain management.
Pain Specialists of Greater Lehigh Valley, 1240 South Cedar Crest Boulevard, Suite 307, Allentown, PA 18103, USA. userpainmd@aol.com
Bruce
B
Nicholson
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002214:Capsules; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D006801:Humans; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D015599:Trauma Severity Indices; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D002214:Capsules; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D009020:Morphine