KADIAN
Kadian® (Slow-Release Oral Morphine)
What does it do?
Kadian is a long-acting form of morphine taken once a day as a capsule. It eases withdrawal and cravings so you can stop using unregulated opioids without the highs and lows of short-acting drugs.It is an alternative treatment option for patients who have not successfully stabilized on or benefited from buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) or methadone.
What is the goal of treatment?
To help you stabilize, reduce or completely stop using street opioids, lower your risk of overdose, and comfortably get on with work, family, and your recovery.
Is it safe in pregnancy?
Kadian is not usually recommended as a first-line choice during pregnancy because methadone and buprenorphine are much better studied. However, pregnancy or breastfeeding is not a strict contraindication for slow-release oral morphine. Please tell us right away if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, and our medical team will safely go over your options.
What are the side effects?
Common side effects include constipation, nausea, drowsiness, sweating, and small pupils. Like all opioids, it can slow breathing, especially when combined with alcohol or sedatives. Crucial Safety Note: You must swallow the pellets whole. Crushing, chewing, or dissolving them destroys the time-release mechanism and can cause a rapid, potentially fatal release of the entire dose.
How long does it last?
Each dose releases medicine continuously to last for about 24 hours, so it is taken once a day. How long you stay on the treatment is entirely individual and often ranges from months to years. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as withdrawal will occur; we will carefully plan any dose reductions together with you.
