Prescription opioid information
Morphine Dependence & Addiction
Morphine is a prescription opioid. Long-term or problematic use can lead to physical dependence and, for some people, opioid use disorder.
Overview
What is Morphine?
Morphine is a prescription opioid. Long-term or problematic use can lead to physical dependence and, for some people, opioid use disorder.
How it can affect the body
Morphine can reduce pain but can also cause sedation, nausea, constipation and slowed breathing.
Dependence vs. addiction
A clinician distinguishes expected physical dependence from opioid use disorder by assessing the broader pattern of use and its consequences.
Signs of problematic use
- Loss of control over use
- Withdrawal or cravings
- Escalating use outside the treatment plan
- Continued use despite harm
Important health risks
- Respiratory depression
- Overdose
- Sedative interactions
- Tolerance and dependence
When emergency care is needed
Suspected opioid overdose requires 911 and naloxone if available.
How addiction is medically assessed
A medical assessment reviews current use, prescription context, withdrawal, co-medications and treatment goals.
Treatment options
Opioid agonist treatment may be considered for opioid use disorder when clinically appropriate.
Treatment pathway
Looking for treatment rather than general information?
The treatment page focuses on how TSCP care works, how to start and what a clinician may consider.
Editorial transparency
Medical sources & review status
Prepared by the TSCP editorial team using Canadian public-health and clinical sources. A named medical reviewer is not displayed until TSCP confirms the reviewer and credentials.
Content updated: 2026-09-10