Definition of Morphine
1. Noun. An alkaloid narcotic drug extracted from opium; a powerful, habit-forming narcotic used to relieve pain.
Definition of Morphine
1. n. A bitter white crystalline alkaloid found in opium, possessing strong narcotic properties, and much used as an anodyne; -- called also morphia, and morphina.
Definition of Morphine
1. a narcotic alkaloid [n -S]
Medical Definition of Morphine
1.
An opioid alkaloid, isolated from opium, with a complex ring structure. It is a powerful analgesic with important medical uses, but is highly addictive. Functions by occupying the receptor sites for the natural neurotransmitter peptides, endorphins and enkephalins, but is stable to the peptidases that inactivate these compounds.
Pharmacologic action: Narcotic analgesia, increases venous capacitance and reduces systemic vascular resistance.
Uses: Analgesic for ischemic chest pain, hemodynamic changes lead to reduced pulmonary congestion, reduced myocardial oxygen demand.
Dose: 1-3 mg slow IV increments until desired effect.
Potential complications: Respiratory depression, hypotension, especially in hypovolemic patients.
(17 Mar 2000)
Lexicographical Neighbors of Morphine
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