Morphine Sulfate 10 mg/mL Injection, Solution, 10 syringes — NDC 0409-1893-23 (Billing 00409-1893-23)
This is a package of 10 syringes of Morphine Sulfate 10 mg/mL Injection, Solution from Hospira, Inc., marketed since Aug 2012 and currently FDA-listed.
Other active recalls for Morphine Sulfate (different manufacturers) — 4 · tap to view
Identity & classification
Regulatory identifiers FDA, NLM and CMS codes for this package
Drug-database identifiers Medi-Span GPI and First Databank GCN / HICL / AHFS classification
- GSN (GCN sequence number): 072944
- GCN: 37249
- GPI-14 (Medi-Span): 65100055102060
- HICL (First Databank): 001694
- AHFS class code: 28:08.08.00
- RxCUI (RxNorm): 894912
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- RxNorm (NLM RxNav) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- Medi-Span GPI (licensed)
- First Databank (licensed) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Opioid Agonist class.
Where does this data come from?
- RxClass (NLM) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Clinical
- Morphine injection is used to relieve severe pain — the kind that hasn't responded well enough to other treatments. It's not used for mild or moderate pain. Depending on the produc...
- What is morphine injection actually used for?
- When morphine is given near your spinal cord — either in the epidural space or directly into the spinal fluid — it can cause your breathing to slow down dangerously, even hours aft...
- Why do I have to be watched so closely after getting the epidural or spinal version?
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Morphine Sulfate — tap one for details:
Where does this data come from?
- MedlinePlus (NLM) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per mL | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs. | |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $1.33 | $13.29 / 10 ml |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · quarterly | No Part D plan price is available for this NDC in our data. | |
| Medicare Part B allowsASP · J2274 | $18.914 / J2274 unit | — |
Where does this data come from?
- CMS NADAC weekly file
- CMS ASP pricing files · refreshed Sep 20, 2026
- CMS Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data · through Q1 2026
- CMS Part D plan pricing files · refreshed Sep 24, 2026
- VA National Acquisition Center price file
Billing & reimbursement
Where does this data come from?
- CMS ASP NDC-HCPCS crosswalk · refreshed Sep 22, 2026
- DMEPDAC NDC-HCPCS crosswalk
- openFDA NSDE billing units · refreshed Sep 7, 2026
Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Per unit | Per pack | Marketing start | Marketing end | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00409-1893-23 You're viewing this | 10 SYRINGE in 1 CELLO PACK / 1 mL in 1 SYRINGE | — | — | 2021-02-01 | — | Active |
| 00409-1893-01 0409-1893-01 Main listing | 10 CARTRIDGE in 1 CARTON / 1 mL in 1 CARTRIDGE | $1.60 / mL | $15.95 | 2012-08-20 | — | Discontinued by firm |
This pack accounts for about 2.8% of this product's recent Medicaid fills; most go to a different pack size. See all packs ↓
Pack size FAQ
What quantity is in this package?
How does this package differ from NDC 00409-1893-01?
What NDC number is used to bill for this package of Morphine Sulfate 10 mg/mL Injection, Solution?
Prices are the latest CMS NADAC pharmacy acquisition cost per NDC; per-pack figures are per-unit × pack quantity, shown only when the pack is denominated in the same measure NADAC prices.
Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morphine Sulfate 10 mg/mL 00641-6127-25 | Hikma | 25 vials | $2.342 | AP | Availability likely | — |
| Morphine Sulfate 10 mg/mLthis 00409-1893-23 | Hospira, | 10 syringes | — | AP | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
- CMS NADAC weekly file
Availability & generic status
FDA-approved generic versions are listed, and recent pricing/market data suggests they may be available — see Therapeutic equivalents.
Where does this data come from?
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
Where does this data come from?
IACT rows and label-wide narrative are kept separate; availability and product-level specificity depend on the submitted label.- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Manufacturer & labeler
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- Drugs@FDA
Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE‑THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF MORPHINE SULFATE INJECTION WARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE‑THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF MORPHINE SULFATE INJECTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning . • Morphine Sulfate Injection exposes 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 with use of Morphine Sulfate Injection, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase.
To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of Morphine Sulfate Injection are essential. ( 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 neonatology experts will be available at delivery. ( 5.4 ) Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Because the use of Morphine Sulfate Injection 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 Injection, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of Morphine Sulfate Injection are essential [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 Injection 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) ] .
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Morphine Sulfate Injection is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate. Morphine Sulfate Injection is an opioid agonist indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate. ( 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 Injection, 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 ) 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 (5.1) ] , reserve opioid analgesics, including Morphine Sulfate Injection , for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Morphine Sulfate Injection should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about the use of opioids and how to mitigate the associated risks. ( 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 Injection 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 ) • Many acute pain conditions (e.g., the pain that occurs with a number of surgical procedures or acute musculoskeletal injuries) require no more than a few days of an opioid analgesic. Clinical guidelines on opioid prescribing for some acute pain conditions are available. ( 2.1 ) • 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 Injection. Consider this risk when selecting an initial dose and when making dose adjustments. ( 2.1 , 5.2 ) • Direct Intravenous Injection: The usual starting dose in adults is 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg per kg every 4 hours as needed for pain management.
( 2.2 ) • Periodically reassess patients receiving Morphine Sulfate Injection 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. ( 2.3 ) • Do not rapidly reduce or abruptly discontinue Morphine Sulfate Injection in a physically-dependent patient. ( 2.4 , 5.14 )
2.1Important Dosage and Administration Instructions • Morphine Sulfate Injection is for intravenous administration. • Morphine Sulfate Injection is available in five concentrations as Carpuject™ cartridges for use with the Carpuject Holder ONLY, and in four concentrations as NexJect™ syringes for intravenous administration. Dosing errors can result in accidental overdose and death. Avoid dosing errors that may result from confusion between mg and mL and confusion with morphine injections of different concentrations when prescribing, dispensing, and administering Morphine Sulfate Injection.
Ensure that the dose is communicated and dispensed accurately. • Morphine Sulfate Injection should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about the use of opioids and how to mitigate the associated risks. • Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration of time consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see Warnings and Precautions (5) ] . Because the risk of overdose increases as opioid doses increase, reserve titration to higher doses of Morphine Sulfate Injection 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. • Many acute pain conditions (e.g., the pain that occurs with a number of surgical procedures or acute musculoskeletal injuries) require no more than a few days of an opioid analgesic.
Clinical guidelines on opioid prescribing for some acute pain conditions are available. • There is variability in the opioid analgesic dose and duration needed to adequately manage pain due both to the cause of pain and to individual patient factors. 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 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . • Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially when initiating and foll… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution of morphine sulfate, free of antioxidants and preservatives to be administered by the intravenous route, available in the following dosage forms and strengths: • Single-dose Carpuject™ Cartridges to be used ONLY with Carpuject™ Holders 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, and 15 mg/mL • Single-dose NexJect™ Syringes 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL • Injectable for intravenous administration, Carpuject™ Single-dose Cartridges with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System for use ONLY with the Carpuject Holder: 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, and 15 mg/mL.
( 3 ) • Injectable for intravenous administration, NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock: 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL. ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Morphine Sulfate Injection is 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) ] • Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] • Hypersensitivity to morphine (e.g., anaphylaxis) [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] • Significant respiratory depression.
( 4 ) • Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in 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 ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Cardiovascular Instability : High doses are excitatory. Have naloxone injection and resuscitative equipment immediately available. ( 5.5 ) • 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 : Monitor closely, 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 : Monitor during dosage initiation and titration. Avoid use of Morphine Sulfate Injection 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 Injection in patients with impaired consciousness or coma. ( 5.11 )
5.1Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Morphine Sulfate Injection contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, Morphine Sulfate Injection exposes users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9) ]. Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed Morphine Sulfate Injection.
Addiction can occur at recommended dosages 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) ] .
Assess each patient's risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing Morphine Sulfate Injection, and monitor all patients receiving morphine sulfate for the 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 Injection but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks and proper use of Morphine Sulfate Injection along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse. Opioids are sought for nonmedical use and are subject to diversion from legitimate prescribed use. Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity.
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.
5.2Life-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 treated, may lead to respiratory arrest and death. Management of respiratory depression may include close observation, supportive measures, and use of opioid overdose reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) , depending on the patient's clinical status [see Overdosage (10) ] .
Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. While serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression can occur at any time during the use of Morphine Sulfate Injection,… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 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 Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Cardiovascular Instability [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • 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) ] The following adverse reactions associated with the use of morphine were identified in clinical studies or postmarketing reports.
Because some of these reactions were 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. Serious adverse reactions associated with Morphine Sulfate Injection included respiratory depression, apnea, and to a lesser degree, circulatory depression, respiratory arrest, shock, and cardiac arrest. Rarely, anaphylactoid reactions have been reported when morphine or other phenanthrene alkaloids of opium are administered intravenously.
The most frequently observed adverse reactions included sedation, lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diaphoresis. Other possible adverse reactions included: Central Nervous System – Euphoria, dysphoria, weakness, headache, agitation, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movements, visual disturbances, transient hallucinations and disorientation. Gastrointestinal – Constipation, biliary tract spasm.
Cardiovascular – Tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitation, faintness, syncope, and orthostatic hypotension. Genitourinary – Oliguria and urinary retention; an antidiuretic effect has been reported. Allergic – Pruritus, urticaria, and skin rashes.
Anaphylactoid reactions have been reported following intravenous administration. Other – Opioid-induced histamine release may be responsible for the flushing of the face, diaphoresis, and pruritus often seen with these drugs. Wheals and urticaria at the site of injection are probably related to histamine release.
Local tissue irritation, pain and induration have been reported following repeated subcutaneous injection. Morphine may alter temperature regulation in susceptible individuals and will depress the cough reflex. 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 opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use. Anaphylaxis : Anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in Morphine Sulfate Injection. Androgen deficiency : Cases of androgen deficiency have occurred with use of opioids for an extended period of time [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] .
Hyperalgesia and Allodynia : Cases of hyperalgesia and allodynia have been reported with opioid therapy of any duration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]. Hypoglycemia : Cases of hypoglycemia have been reported in patients taking opioids. Most reports were in patients with at least one predisposing risk factor (e.g., diabetes). Opioid-induced esophageal dysfunction (OIED) : Cases of OIED have been reported in patients taking opioids and may occur more frequently in patients taking higher doses of opioids, and/or in patients taking opioids longer term [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ].
Adverse Reactions from Observational Studies A… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 1 includes clinically significant drug interactions with Morphine Sulfate Injection. Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Morphine Sulfate Injection 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. Monitor patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
Examples: Benzodiazepines and other sedatives/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, carefully observe the patient, particularly during treatment initiation and dose adjustment.
Discontinue Morphine Sulfate Injection 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 (5.2 , 5.8) ]. Intervention: Do not use Morphine Sulfate Injection in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment. If urgent use of an opioid is necessary, use test doses and frequent titration of small doses of other opioids (such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, oxymorphone, hydrocodone, or buprenorphine) to treat pain while closely monitoring blood pressure and signs and symptoms of CNS and respiratory depression.
Examples: phenelzine, tranylcypromine, linezolid. Mixed Agonist/Antagonist and Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics Clinical Impact: May reduce the analgesic effect of Morphine Sulfate Injection 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: Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dosage of Morphine Sulfate Injection and/or the muscle relaxant as necessary.
Examples: Cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone. Cimetidine Clinical Impact: Concomitant administration of Morphine Sulfate Injection and cimetidine has been reported to precipitate apnea, confusion, and muscle twitching in an isolated report. Intervention: Monitor patients for increased respiratory and CNS depression when receiving cimetidine concomitantly with Morphine Sulfate Injection.
Diuretics Clinical Impact: Opioids can reduce the efficacy of diuretics by inducing the release of antidiuretic hormone. Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of diminished diuresis and/or effects on blood pressure and increase the dosage of the diuretic as needed. Anticholinergic Drugs Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of anticholinergic drugs may incr… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pregnancy : May cause fetal harm. ( 8.1 ) • Geriatric Patients : Use caution during dose selection, starting at the low end of the dosing range while carefully monitoring for side effects. ( 8.5 )
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . There are no available data with Morphine Sulfate Injection in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage or adverse maternal outcomes. There are adverse outcomes reported with fetal exposure to opioid analgesics [see Clinical Considerations ] .
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 3-4 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 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 signs 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 Injection is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, when use of shorter-acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. Opioid analgesics, including Morphine Sulfate Injection, can prolong labor through actions that 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 dilatation, which tends to shorten labor.
Monitor neonates exposed to opioid analgesics during labor for signs of excess sedation and respiratory depressi… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🤰 Pregnancy ▾
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . There are no available data with Morphine Sulfate Injection in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage or adverse maternal outcomes. There are adverse outcomes reported with fetal exposure to opioid analgesics [see Clinical Considerations ] .
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 3-4 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 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 signs 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 Injection is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, when use of shorter-acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. Opioid analgesics, including Morphine Sulfate Injection, can prolong labor through actions that 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 dilatation, 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 during pregnancy, indicate no i… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧒 Pediatric Use ▾
8.4Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of Morphine Sulfate Injection in pediatric patients below the age of 18 have not been established.
🧓 Geriatric Use ▾
8.5Geriatric Use The pharmacodynamic effects of morphine in the elderly are more variable than in the younger population. Older patients will vary widely in the effective initial dose, rate of development of tolerance and the frequency and magnitude of associated adverse effects as the dose is increased. Initial elderly patients (aged 65 years or older) may have increased sensitivity to morphine.
In general, use caution when selecting a dosage for an elderly patient, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Respiratory depression is the chief risk for elderly patients treated with opioids and has occurred after large initial doses were administered to patients who were not opioid-tolerant or when opioids were co-administered with other agents that depress respiration.
Titrate the dosage of Morphine Sulfate Injection slowly in geriatric patients and monitor closely for signs of central nervous system and respiratory depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Morphine is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE Clinical Presentation Acute overdose with morphine sulfate 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 reestablishment of a patent and protected airway and institution of assisted or controlled ventilation, if needed. Employ 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 morphine overdose, administer an opioid overdose reversal agent such as naloxone or nalmefene. Because the duration of opioid reversal is expected to be less than the duration of action of morphine in Morphine Sulfate Injection, carefully monitor the patient until spontaneous respiration is reliably re‑established. 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 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 begin with care and by titration with smaller than usual doses of the reversal agent.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism 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.
12.2Pharmacodynamics Effects on the Central Nervous System Morphine sulfate produces respiratory depression by direct action on brain stem respiratory centers. The respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brain stem respiratory centers to both increases in carbon dioxide tension and electrical stimulation. Morphine causes miosis, even in total darkness.
Pinpoint pupils are a sign of opioid overdose but are not pathognomonic (e.g., pontine lesions of hemorrhagic or ischemic origins may produce similar findings). Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen due to hypoxia in overdose situations. Effects on the Gastrointestinal Tract and Other Smooth Muscle Morphine causes a reduction in motility associated with an increase in smooth muscle tone in the antrum of the stomach duodenum.
Digestion of food in the small intestine is delayed and propulsive contractions are decreased. Propulsive peristaltic waves in the colon are decreased, while tone may be increased to the point of spasm, resulting in constipation. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in biliary and pancreatic secretions, spasm of sphincter of Oddi, transient elevations in serum amylase, and opioid‑induced esophageal dysfunction (OIED).
Effects of the Cardiovascular System Morphine produces peripheral vasodilation which may result in orthostatic hypotension or syncope. Manifestations of histamine release and/or peripheral vasodilation may include pruritus, flushing, red eyes, sweating, and/or orthostatic hypotension. Effects on the Endocrine System Opioids inhibit the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and luteinizing hormones (LH) in humans.
They also stimulate prolactin, growth hormone (GH) secretion, and pancreatic secretion of insulin and glucagon . Use of opioids for an extended period of time may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to androgen deficiency that may manifest as low libido, impotence, erectile dysfunction, amenorrhea, or infertility. The causal role of opioids in the clinical syndrome of hypogonadism is unknown because the various medical, physical, lifestyle, and psychological stressors that may influence gonadal hormone levels have not been adequately controlled for in studies conducted to date [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] .
Effects on the Immune System Opioids have been shown to have a variety of effects on components of the immune system in in vitro and animal models. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Overall, the effects of opioids appear to be modestly immunosuppressive.
Concentration–Efficacy Relationships The minimum effective analgesic concentration will vary widely among patients, especially among patients who have been previously treated with opioid agonists. The minimum effective analgesic concentration of morphine for any individual patient may increase over time due to an increase in pain, the development of a new pain syndrome, and/or the development of analgesic tolerance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.2 )] . Concentration–Adverse Reaction Relationships There is a relationship between increasing morphine sulfate plasma concentration and increasing freq… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧬 Mechanism of Action ▾
12.1Mechanism 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.
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is supplied as a sterile solution in single-dose Carpuject™ cartridges for use ONLY with the Carpuject™ Holders and NexJect™ prefilled syringes for intravenous administration, and available as follows: Unit of Sale Concentration (per total volume) NDC 0409-1890-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System 2 mg/mL NDC 0409-1891-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System 4 mg/mL NDC 0409-1892-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System 8 mg/mL NDC 0409-1893-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System 10 mg/mL NDC 0409-1894-01 Carton of 10 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System 15 mg/mL NDC 0409-1890-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 2 mg/mL NDC 0409-1891-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 4 mg/mL NDC 0409-1892-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 8 mg/mL NDC 0409-1893-23 Clamshell of 10 1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock 10 mg/mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridges with Luer Lock are packaged in a Slim-Pak™ tamper detection package.
Note that a needle is not included with Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridges and Nexject™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringes. Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature] until ready to use. PROTECT FROM LIGHT.
DO NOT FREEZE. Contains no preservative or antioxidant. DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION.
DO NOT HEAT-STERILIZE.
📦 Storage and Handling ▾
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature] until ready to use. PROTECT FROM LIGHT. DO NOT FREEZE. Contains no preservative or antioxidant. DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION. DO NOT HEAT-STERILIZE.
📋 Description ▾
11 DESCRIPTION Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is an opioid agonist, available in 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, and 15 mg/mL (1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single‑dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System) and 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 10 mg/mL (1 mL fill in 1.5 mL NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe with Luer Lock). When exposed to air it gradually loses water of hydration, and darkens on prolonged exposure to light. The chemical name is 7,8-Didehydro-4,5-epoxy-17-methyl-(5α,6α)-morphinan-3,6-diol sulfate (2: 1) (salt), pentahydrate, with the following chemical structure: (C 17 H 19 NO 3 ) 2 • H 2 SO 4 • 5H 2 O Molecular Weight is 758.83 Morphine sulfate USP 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 pKa is 7.9 for the tertiary nitrogen (the majority is ionized at pH 7.4). Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution of morphine sulfate, free of antioxidants and preservatives to be administered by the intravenous route.
For the single-dose Carpuject™ cartridges for intravenous administration : Each milliliter of sterile solution contains 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP and the following inactive ingredients: 0.2 mg edetate disodium, 0.4 mg citric acid for the 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg and 10 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP or 0.8 mg citric acid for the 15 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP, sodium chloride to adjust isotonicity and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust pH.
The pH range is 2.5 to 4.0. For the single-dose NexJect™ syringes for intravenous administration : Each milliliter of sterile solution contains 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, or 10 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP and the following inactive ingredients: 0.2 mg edetate disodium, 0.4 mg citric acid for the 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, and 10 mg Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP, sodium chloride to adjust isotonicity and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust pH.
The pH range is 2.5 to 4.0. Chemical Structure
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Inform patients that the use of Morphine Sulfate Injection, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Instruct patients not to share Morphine Sulfate Injection with others and to take steps to protect Morphine Sulfate Injection from theft or misuse. Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, including information that the risk is greatest when starting Morphine Sulfate Injection or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended dosages [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Hyperalgesia and Allodynia Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of hyperalgesia, including worsening pain, increased sensitivity to pain, or new pain [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ; Adverse Reactions (6) ] . Serotonin Syndrome Inform patients that opioids can cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome resulting from concomitant administration of serotonergic drugs.
Warn patients of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome and to seek medical attention right away if symptoms develop after discharge from the hospital. Instruct patients to inform their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take serotonergic medications [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Constipation Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] .
For Medical Information about Morphine Sulfate Injection, please visit www.pfizermedinfo.com or call 1-800-438-1985.
🧬 Pharmacokinetics ▾
12.3Pharmacokinetics Distribution Morphine has an apparent volume of distribution ranging from 1.0 to
4.7L/kg after parenteral administration. Protein binding is low, about 36%, and muscle tissue binding is reported as 54%. A blood‑brain barrier exists, and when morphine is introduced outside of the CNS, plasma concentrations of morphine remain higher than the corresponding CSF morphine levels. Elimination Morphine has a total plasma clearance which ranges from 0.9 to
1.2L/kg/h in postoperative patients, but shows considerable inter individual variation. Metabolism The major pathway of clearance is hepatic glucuronidation to morphine-3-glucuronide, which is pharmacologically inactive. Excretion The major excretion path of the conjugate is through the kidneys, with about 10% in the feces.
Morphine is also eliminated by the kidneys, 2 to 12% being excreted unchanged in the urine. Terminal half-life is commonly reported to vary from 1.5 to 4.5 hours, although the longer half-lives were obtained when morphine levels were monitored over protracted periods with very sensitive radioimmunoassay methods. The accepted elimination half-life in normal subjects is 1.5 to 2 hours.
Specific population Sex While evidence of greater post-operative Morphine Sulfate Injection consumption in men compared to women is present in the literature, clinically significant differences in analgesic outcomes and pharmacokinetic parameters have not been consistently demonstrated. Some studies have shown an increased sensitivity to the adverse effects of Morphine Sulfate Injection, including respiratory depression, in women compared to men. Hepatic Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics are altered in patients with cirrhosis.
Clearance was found to decrease with a corresponding increase in half-life. The M3G and M6G to morphine AUC ratios also decreased in these subjects, indicating diminished metabolic activity. Adequate studies of the pharmacokinetics of morphine in patients with severe hepatic impairment have not been conducted.
Renal Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics are altered in patients with renal failure. The AUC is increased and clearance is decreased and the metabolites, M3G and M6G, may accumulate to much higher plasma levels in patients with renal failure as compared to patients with normal renal function. Adequate studies of the pharmacokinetics of morphine in patients with severe renal impairment have not been conducted.
🧬 Pharmacodynamics ▾
12.2Pharmacodynamics Effects on the Central Nervous System Morphine sulfate produces respiratory depression by direct action on brain stem respiratory centers. The respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brain stem respiratory centers to both increases in carbon dioxide tension and electrical stimulation. Morphine causes miosis, even in total darkness.
Pinpoint pupils are a sign of opioid overdose but are not pathognomonic (e.g., pontine lesions of hemorrhagic or ischemic origins may produce similar findings). Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen due to hypoxia in overdose situations. Effects on the Gastrointestinal Tract and Other Smooth Muscle Morphine causes a reduction in motility associated with an increase in smooth muscle tone in the antrum of the stomach duodenum.
Digestion of food in the small intestine is delayed and propulsive contractions are decreased. Propulsive peristaltic waves in the colon are decreased, while tone may be increased to the point of spasm, resulting in constipation. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in biliary and pancreatic secretions, spasm of sphincter of Oddi, transient elevations in serum amylase, and opioid‑induced esophageal dysfunction (OIED).
Effects of the Cardiovascular System Morphine produces peripheral vasodilation which may result in orthostatic hypotension or syncope. Manifestations of histamine release and/or peripheral vasodilation may include pruritus, flushing, red eyes, sweating, and/or orthostatic hypotension. Effects on the Endocrine System Opioids inhibit the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and luteinizing hormones (LH) in humans.
They also stimulate prolactin, growth hormone (GH) secretion, and pancreatic secretion of insulin and glucagon . Use of opioids for an extended period of time may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to androgen deficiency that may manifest as low libido, impotence, erectile dysfunction, amenorrhea, or infertility. The causal role of opioids in the clinical syndrome of hypogonadism is unknown because the various medical, physical, lifestyle, and psychological stressors that may influence gonadal hormone levels have not been adequately controlled for in studies conducted to date [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] .
Effects on the Immune System Opioids have been shown to have a variety of effects on components of the immune system in in vitro and animal models. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Overall, the effects of opioids appear to be modestly immunosuppressive.
Concentration–Efficacy Relationships The minimum effective analgesic concentration will vary widely among patients, especially among patients who have been previously treated with opioid agonists. The minimum effective analgesic concentration of morphine for any individual patient may increase over time due to an increase in pain, the development of a new pain syndrome, and/or the development of analgesic tolerance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.2 )] . Concentration–Adverse Reaction Relationships There is a relationship between increasing morphine sulfate plasma concentration and increasing frequency of dose-related opioid adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, CNS effects, and respiratory depression.
In opioid-tolerant patients, the situation may be altered by the development of tolerance to opioid-related adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.2 , 2.4) ].
🔒 Drug Abuse and Dependence ▾
9 DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE
9.1Controlled Substance Morphine Sulfate Injection contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
9.2Abuse Morphine Sulfate Injection contains morphine, a substance with high potential for misuse and abuse, which can lead to the development of substance use disorder, including addiction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Misuse is the intentional use, for therapeutic purposes, of a drug by an individual in a way other than prescribed by a healthcare provider or for whom it was not prescribed. Abuse is the intentional, non-therapeutic use of a drug, even once, for its desirable psychological or physiological effects.
Drug addiction is a cluster of behavioral, cognitive, and physiological phenomena that may include a strong desire to take the drug, difficulties in controlling drug use (e.g., continuing drug use despite harmful consequences, giving a higher priority to drug use than to other activities and obligations), and possible tolerance or physical dependence. Misuse and abuse of Morphine Sulfate Injection increases risk of overdose, which may lead to central nervous system and respiratory depression, hypotension, seizures, and death.
The risk is increased with concurrent abuse of Morphine Sulfate Injection with alcohol and/or other CNS depressants. Abuse of and addiction to opioids in some individuals may not be accompanied by concurrent tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence. In addition, abuse of opioids can occur in the absence of addiction.
All patients treated with opioids require careful and frequent reevaluation for signs of misuse, abuse and addiction, because use of opioid analgesic products carries the risk of addiction even under appropriate medical use. Patients at high risk of Morphine Sulfate Injection abuse include those with a history of prolonged use of any opioid, including products containing morphine, those with a history of drug or alcohol abuse, or those who use Morphine Sulfate Injection in combination with other abused drugs. “Drug-seeking” behavior is very common in persons with substance use disorders.
Drug-seeking tactics include emergency calls or visits near the end of office hours, refusal to undergo appropriate examination, testing or referral, repeated “loss” of prescriptions, tampering with prescriptions, and reluctance to provide prior medical records or contact information for other treating healthcare provider(s). “Doctor shopping” (visiting multiple prescribers to obtain additional prescriptions) is common among people who abuse drugs and people with substance use disorder. Preoccupation with achieving adequate pain relief can be appropriate behavior in a patient with inadequate pain control.
Morphine Sulfate Injection, like other opioids, can be diverted for nonmedical use into illicit channels of distribution. Careful record-keeping of prescribing information, including quantity, frequency, and renewal requests, as required by state and federal law, is strongly advised. Proper assessment of the patient, proper prescribing practices, periodic reevaluation of therapy, and proper dispensing and storage are appropriate measures that help to limit abuse of opioid drugs.
Risks Specific to Abuse of Morphine Sulfate Injection Abuse of Morphine Sulfate Injection poses a risk of overdose and death. The risk is increased with concurrent use of Morphine Sulfate Injection with alcohol and/or other CNS depressants. Parenteral drug abuse is commonly associated with transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.
9.3Dependence Both tolerance and physical dependence can develop during use of opioid therapy. Tolerance is a physiological state characterized by a reduced response to a drug after repeated administration (i.e., a higher dose of a drug is required to produce the same effect that was once obtained at a lower dose). Physical dependence is a state that develops as a result of a physiological adaptation in re… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🔒 Controlled Substance ▾
9.1Controlled Substance Morphine Sulfate Injection contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
🧪 Nonclinical Toxicology ▾
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenesis Long-term studies in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of morphine have not been conducted. Mutagenesis No formal studies to assess the mutagenic potential of morphine have been conducted. In the published literature, morphine was found to be mutagenic in vitro increasing DNA fragmentation in human T-cells.
Morphine was also reported to be mutagenic in the in vivo mouse micronucleus assay and positive for the induction of chromosomal aberrations in mouse spermatids and murine lymphocytes. Mechanistic studies suggest that the in vivo clastogenic effects reported with morphine in mice may be related to increases in glucocorticoid levels produced by morphine in these species. In contrast to the above positive findings, in vitro studies in the literature have also shown that morphine did not induce chromosomal aberrations in human leukocytes or translocations or lethal mutations in Drosophila.
Impairment of Fertility No formal nonclinical studies to assess the potential of morphine to impair fertility have been conducted. Several nonclinical studies from the literature have demonstrated adverse effects on male fertility in the rat from exposure to morphine. One study in which male rats were administered morphine sulfate subcutaneously prior to mating (up to 30 mg/kg twice daily) and during mating (20 mg/kg twice daily) with untreated females, a number of adverse reproductive effects including reduction in total pregnancies and higher incidence of pseudopregnancies at 20 mg/kg/day (3.2 times the HDD) were reported.
Studies from the literature have also reported changes in hormonal levels in male rats (i.e. testosterone, luteinizing hormone) following treatment with morphine at 10 mg/kg/day or greater (1.6 times the HDD). Female rats that were administered morphine sulfate intraperitoneally prior to mating exhibited prolonged estrous cycles at 10 mg/kg/day (1.6 times the HDD). Exposure of adolescent male rats to morphine has been associated with delayed sexual maturation and following mating to untreated females, smaller litters, increased pup mortality, and/or changes in reproductive endocrine status in adult male offspring have been reported (estimated 5 times the plasma levels at the HDD).
📄 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility ▾
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenesis Long-term studies in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of morphine have not been conducted. Mutagenesis No formal studies to assess the mutagenic potential of morphine have been conducted. In the published literature, morphine was found to be mutagenic in vitro increasing DNA fragmentation in human T-cells.
Morphine was also reported to be mutagenic in the in vivo mouse micronucleus assay and positive for the induction of chromosomal aberrations in mouse spermatids and murine lymphocytes. Mechanistic studies suggest that the in vivo clastogenic effects reported with morphine in mice may be related to increases in glucocorticoid levels produced by morphine in these species. In contrast to the above positive findings, in vitro studies in the literature have also shown that morphine did not induce chromosomal aberrations in human leukocytes or translocations or lethal mutations in Drosophila.
Impairment of Fertility No formal nonclinical studies to assess the potential of morphine to impair fertility have been conducted. Several nonclinical studies from the literature have demonstrated adverse effects on male fertility in the rat from exposure to morphine. One study in which male rats were administered morphine sulfate subcutaneously prior to mating (up to 30 mg/kg twice daily) and during mating (20 mg/kg twice daily) with untreated females, a number of adverse reproductive effects including reduction in total pregnancies and higher incidence of pseudopregnancies at 20 mg/kg/day (3.2 times the HDD) were reported.
Studies from the literature have also reported changes in hormonal levels in male rats (i.e. testosterone, luteinizing hormone) following treatment with morphine at 10 mg/kg/day or greater (1.6 times the HDD). Female rats that were administered morphine sulfate intraperitoneally prior to mating exhibited prolonged estrous cycles at 10 mg/kg/day (1.6 times the HDD). Exposure of adolescent male rats to morphine has been associated with delayed sexual maturation and following mating to untreated females, smaller litters, increased pup mortality, and/or changes in reproductive endocrine status in adult male offspring have been reported (estimated 5 times the plasma levels at the HDD).
📖 Instructions for Use ▾
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Do not use if color is darker than pale yellow, if it is discolored in any other way, or if it contains a precipitate. Instructions for use - Carpuject™ Single-dose Cartridge Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridges with Luer Lock are packaged in a Slim-Pak™ tamper detection package.
Note that a needle is not included. Before use, read all instructions for using the Carpuject™ Syringe, which are contained in the product insert for the reusable Carpuject™ Holder before use. Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridges are to be used ONLY with Carpuject™ Holders.
NOTE: To prevent needlestick injuries, do not recap, purposely bend, or break by hand used needles. Do not recap, purposely bend, or break by hand blunt Cannulas. Instructions for use - NexJect™ Single-dose Prefilled Syringe NOTE: To prevent needlestick injuries, do not recap, purposely bend, or break by hand used needles.
Do not recap, purposely bend, or break by hand blunt cannulas. LAB-0921-4.0 Revised: 12/2023 Instruction1 Steps 1 and 2 Steps 3, 4, and 5
📄 Recent Major Changes ▾
Boxed Warning 12/2025 Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 12/2025 Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 ) 12/2025 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3 , 5.12 , 5.14 ) 12/2025
📄 Package Label / Principal Display Panel ▾
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Cartridge Label 1 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock NDC 0409-1890-03 Rx only Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 2 mg/mL Intravenous Use Only Protect from light and freezing. Distributed by Hospira, Inc., Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA Hospira PAA193040 PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Cartridge Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Cartridge Carton NDC 0409-1890-01 Contains 10 of NDC 0409-1890-03 Rx only 1mL Single-dose 10 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Needle not included SLIM-PAK™ Tamper Detection Package Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 2 mg/mL Intravenous Use Only Carpuject Cartridges are to be used ONLY with Carpuject Holders. Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Cartridge Carton
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mg/mL Cartridge Label 1 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock NDC 0409-1891-03 Rx only Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP 4 mg/mL CII Intravenous Use Only Protect from light and freezing. Distributed by Hospira, Inc., Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA Hospira PAA194123 PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mg/mL Cartridge Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mg/mL Cartridge Carton NDC 0409-1891-01 Contains 10 of NDC 0409-1891-03 Rx only 1mL Single-dose 10 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Needle not included SLIM-PAK™ Tamper Detection Package Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 4 mg/mL Intravenous Use Only Carpuject Cartridges are to be used ONLY with Carpuject Holders. Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mg/mL Cartridge Carton
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 8 mg/mL Cartridge Label 1 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock NDC 0409-1892-03 Rx only Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP 8 mg/mL CII Intravenous Use Only Protect from light and freezing. Distributed by Hospira, Inc., Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA Hospira PAA194126 PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 8 mg/mL Cartridge Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 8 mg/mL Cartridge Carton NDC 0409-1892-01 Contains 10 of NDC 0409-1892-03 Rx only 1mL Single-dose 10 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Needle not included SLIM-PAK™ Tamper Detection Package Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 8 mg/mL Intravenous Use Only Carpuject Cartridges are to be used ONLY with Carpuject Holders. Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 8 mg/mL Cartridge Carton
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 10 mg/mL Cartridge Label 1 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock NDC 0409-1893-03 Rx only Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP 10 mg/mL CII Intravenous Use Only Protect from light and freezing. Distributed by Hospira, Inc., Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA Hospira PAA194129 PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 10 mg/mL Cartridge Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 10 mg/mL Cartridge Carton NDC 0409-1893-01 Contains 10 of NDC 0409-1893-03 Rx only 1mL Single-dose 10 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Needle not included SLIM-PAK™ Tamper Detection Package Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 10 mg/mL Intravenous Use Only Carpuject Cartridges are to be used ONLY with Carpuject Holders. Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 10 mg/mL Cartridge Carton
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Syringe Label TWIST & PULL Tamper Seal NDC 0409-1890-13 Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 2 mg / mL INTRAVENOUS USE ONLY Protect from light and freezing. Preservative-Free Rx only 1 mL Single-dose syringe PAA140549 LOT #####AA EXP DMMMYYYY PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Syringe Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Syringe Luer Lock Label Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 2 mg / mL PAA140545 PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Syringe Luer Lock Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg/mL Syringe Luer Lock Cello Pack Label NDC 0409-1890-23 Preservative-Free Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP CII 2 mg / mL INTRAVENOUS USE ONLY Rx only 10 NexJect 1 mL Single-dose syringes with luer lock Needle not included Protect from light and freezing. Opaque covering needed until contents are used. Store at 20 to 25°C… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
Medicaid utilization & spend
Medicaid utilization by pack size
Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)
About this NDC listing & data coverage
What data is (and isn’t) available for this NDC — tap to expand
| NDC identity (package / product / labeler codes) | ✓ Available |
| Labeler | ✓ Available |
| Product & package description | ✓ Available |
| Marketing category & status | ✓ Available |
| Active ingredient / dosage form / route | ✓ Available |
| FDA label (SPL via DailyMed) | ✓ Available |
| Package photos | ✓ Available |
| Inactive ingredients (structured) | — Not published for this NDC The labeler did not submit a structured excipient list, or no SPL is available. |
| NADAC pharmacy acquisition price (CMS) | — Not published for this NDC CMS publishes NADAC only for NDCs reported in its retail-pharmacy survey. |
| Orange Book / therapeutic-equivalence data | ✓ Available |
| HCPCS J-code billing crosswalk | ✓ Available |
| Medicaid utilization (CMS SDUD) | ✓ Available |