About The Drug Morphine Sulfate Extended-release Tablets aka Arymo ER
Find Morphine Sulfate Extended-release Tablets side effects, uses, warnings, interactions and indications. Morphine Sulfate Extended-release Tablets is also known as Arymo ER.
Morphine Sulfate Extended-release Tablets
About Morphine Sulfate Extended-release Tablets aka Arymo ER |
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What's The Definition Of The Medical Condition Morphine Sulfate Extended-release Tablets?Clinical Pharmacology CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Mechanism Of Action Morphine sulfate, an opioid agonist, is relatively selective for the mu receptor, although it can interact with other opioid receptors at higher doses.
In addition to analgesia, the widely diverse effects of morphine sulfate include analgesia, dysphoria, euphoria, somnolence, respiratory depression, diminished gastrointestinal motility, altered circulatory dynamics, histamine release, physical dependence, and alterations of the endocrine and autonomic nervous systems.
Morphine produces both its therapeutic and its adverse effects by interaction with one or more classes of specific opioid receptors located throughout the body.
Morphine acts as a full agonist, binding with and activating opioid receptors at sites in the peri-aqueductal and peri-ventricular grey matter, the ventro-medial medulla and the spinal cord to produce analgesia.
Pharmacodynamics Plasma Level-Analgesia Relationships While plasma morphine-efficacy relationships can be demonstrated in non-tolerant individuals, they are influenced by a wide variety of factors and are not generally useful as a guide to the clinical use of morphine.
Dosages of morphine should be chosen and must be titrated on the basis of clinical evaluation of the patient and the balance between therapeutic and adverse effects.
CNS Depressant/Alcohol Interaction Additive pharmacodynamic effects may be expected when morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are used in conjunction with alcohol, other opioids, or illicit drugs that cause central nervous system depression.
Effects On The Central Nervous System The principal actions of therapeutic value of morphine are analgesia and sedation.
Specific CNS opiate receptors for endogenous compounds with opioid-like activity have been identified throughout the brain and spinal cord and are likely to play a role in the expression of analgesic effects.
Morphine produces respiratory depression by direct action on brainstem respiratory centers.
The mechanism of respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brainstem respiratory centers to increases in carbon dioxide tension, and to electrical stimulation.
Morphine depresses the cough reflex by direct effect on the cough center in the medulla.
Morphine causes miosis, even in total darkness.
Pinpoint pupils are a sign of narcotic 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 with worsening hypoxia.
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 and in the duodenum.
Digestion of food is delayed in the small intestine and propulsive contractions are decreased.
Propulsive peristaltic waves in the colon are decreased, while tone may be increased to the point of spasm.
The end result is constipation.
Morphine can cause a marked reduction in gastric, biliary and pancreatic secretions, spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, and transient elevations in serum amylase.
Effects On The Cardiovascular System Morphine produces peripheral vasodilation which may result in orthostatic hypotension.
Release of histamine can occur and may contribute to opioid-induced hypotension.
Manifestations of histamine release and/or peripheral vasodilation may include pruritus, flushing, red eyes, and sweating.
Effects On The Endocrine System Opioids inhibit the secretion of ACTH, cortisol, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH) in humans.
They also stimulate prolactin, growth hormone (GH) secretion, and pancreatic secretion of insulin and glucagon.
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.
Pharmacokinetics Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are an extended-release tablet containing morphine sulfate.
Morphine is released from morphine sulfate extended-release tablets somewhat more slowly than from immediate-release oral preparations.
Following oral administration of a given dose of morphine, the amount ultimately absorbed is essentially the same whether the source is morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets or an immediate-release formulation.
Because of pre-systemic elimination (i.e., metabolism in the gut wall and liver) only about 40% of the administered dose reaches the central compartment.
Absorption The oral bioavailability of morphine is approximately 20 to 40%.
When morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets are given on a fixed dosing regimen, steady-state is achieved in about a day.
Food Effect The effect of food upon the systemic bioavailability of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets has not been systematically evaluated for all strengths.
One study, conducted with the 30 mg morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, showed no significant differences in Cmax and AUC (0-24h) values, whether the tablet was taken while fasting or with a high-fat breakfast.
Distribution Once absorbed, morphine is distributed to skeletal muscle, kidneys, liver, intestinal tract, lungs, spleen, and brain.
Morphine also crosses placental membranes and has been found in breast milk.
The volume of distribution (Vd) for morphine is approximately 3 to 4 liters per kilogram and morphine is 30 to 35% reversibly bound to plasma proteins.
Metabolism The major pathways of morphine metabolism include glucuronidation to produce metabolites including morphine-3-glucuronide, M3G (about 50%) and morphine-6-glucuronide, M6G (about 5 to 15%) and sulfation in the liver to produce morphine-3-etheral sulfate.
A small fraction (less than 5%) of morphine is demethylated.
M6G has been shown to have analgesic activity but crosses the blood-brain barrier poorly, while M3G has no significant analgesic activity.
Excretion The elimination of morphine occurs primarily as renal excretion of M3G and its effective half-life after intravenous administration is normally 2 to 4 hours.
Approximately 10% of the dose is excreted unchanged in urine.
In some studies involving longer periods of plasma sampling, a longer terminal halflife of about 15 hours was reported.
A small amount of the glucuronide conjugate is excreted in the bile, and there is some minor enterohepatic recycling.
Specific Populations Geriatric Patients The pharmacokinetics of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets have not been studied in elderly patients.
Pediatric Patients The pharmacokinetics of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets have not been studied in pediatric patients below the age of 18.
Gender A gender analysis of pharmacokinetic data from healthy subjects taking morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets indicated that morphine concentrations were similar in males and females.
Race Chinese subjects given intravenous morphine had a higher clearance when compared to Caucasian subjects (1852 +/- 116 ml/min compared to 1495 +/- 80 ml/min).
Hepatic Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics are altered in individuals with cirrhosis.
Clearance was found to decrease with a corresponding increase in half-life.
The M3G and M6G to morphine plasma 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.
Clinical Pharmacology CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Mechanism Of Action Morphine sulfate, an opioid agonist, is relatively selective for the mu receptor, although it can interact with other opioid receptors at higher doses.
In addition to analgesia, the widely diverse effects of morphine sulfate include analgesia, dysphoria, euphoria, somnolence, respiratory depression, diminished gastrointestinal motility, altered circulatory dynamics, histamine release, physical dependence, and alterations of the endocrine and autonomic nervous systems.
Morphine produces both its therapeutic and its adverse effects by interaction with one or more classes of specific opioid receptors located throughout the body.
Morphine acts as a full agonist, binding with and activating opioid receptors at sites in the peri-aqueductal and peri-ventricular grey matter, the ventro-medial medulla and the spinal cord to produce analgesia.
Pharmacodynamics Plasma Level-Analgesia Relationships While plasma morphine-efficacy relationships can be demonstrated in non-tolerant individuals, they are influenced by a wide variety of factors and are not generally useful as a guide to the clinical use of morphine.
Dosages of morphine should be chosen and must be titrated on the basis of clinical evaluation of the patient and the balance between therapeutic and adverse effects.
CNS Depressant/Alcohol Interaction Additive pharmacodynamic effects may be expected when MORPHABOND is used in conjunction with alcohol, other opioids, or illicit drugs that cause central nervous system depression.
Effects on the Central Nervous System The principal actions of therapeutic value of morphine are analgesia and sedation.
Specific CNS opiate receptors for endogenous compounds with opioid-like activity have been identified throughout the brain and spinal cord and are likely to play a role in the expression of analgesic effects.
Morphine produces respiratory depression by direct action on brainstem respiratory centers.
The mechanism of respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brainstem respiratory centers to increases in carbon dioxide tension, and to electrical stimulation.
Morphine depresses the cough reflex by direct effect on the cough center in the medulla.
Morphine causes miosis, even in total darkness.
Pinpoint pupils are a sign of narcotic 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 with worsening hypoxia.
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 and in the duodenum.
Digestion of food is delayed in the small intestine and propulsive contractions are decreased.
Propulsive peristaltic waves in the colon are decreased, while tone may be increased to the point of spasm.
The end result is constipation.
Morphine can cause a marked reduction in gastric, biliary and pancreatic secretions, spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, and transient elevations in serum amylase.
Effects on 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 and sweating and/or orthostatic hypotension.
Caution must be used in hypovolemic patients, such as those suffering acute myocardial infarction, because morphine may cause or further aggravate their hypotension.
Caution must also be used in patients with cor pulmonale who have received therapeutic doses of opioids.
Effects on the Endocrine System Opioids inhibit the secretion of ACTH, cortisol, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH) in humans.
They also stimulate prolactin, growth hormone (GH) secretion, and pancreatic secretion of insulin and glucagon.
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.
Pharmacokinetics MORPHABOND is an extended-release tablet containing morphine sulfate.
Morphine is released from MORPHABOND somewhat more slowly than from immediate-release oral preparations.
Following oral administration of a given dose of morphine, the amount ultimately absorbed is essentially the same whether the source is MORPHABOND or an immediate-release formulation.
Because of pre-systemic elimination (i.e., metabolism in the gut wall and liver) only about 40% of the administered dose reaches the central compartment.
Absorption The oral bioavailability of morphine is approximately 20 to 40%.
When MORPHABOND is given on a fixed dosing regimen, steady-state is achieved in about a day.
Food Effect The effect of food upon the systemic bioavailability of MORPHABOND has not been systematically evaluated for all strengths.
Administration of a single dose of MORPHABOND with a standardized high-fat meal resulted in a 33% increase in morphine peak plasma concentration and no change in AUC compared to fasted state.
Distribution Once absorbed, morphine is distributed to skeletal muscle, kidneys, liver, intestinal tract, lungs, spleen, and brain.
Morphine also crosses placental membranes and has been found in breast milk.
The volume of distribution (Vd) for morphine is approximately 3 to 4 liters per kilogram and morphine is 30 to 35% reversibly bound to plasma proteins.
Metabolism The major pathways of morphine metabolism include glucuronidation to produce metabolites including morphine-3-glucuronide, M3G (about 50%) and morphine-6-glucuronide, M6G (about 5 to 15%) and sulfation in the liver to produce morphine-3-etheral sulfate.
A small fraction (less than 5%) of morphine is demethylated.
M6G has been shown to have analgesic activity but crosses the blood-brain barrier poorly, while M3G has no significant analgesic activity.
Excretion The elimination of morphine occurs primarily as renal excretion of M3G and its effective half-life after intravenous administration is normally 2 to 4 hours.
Approximately 10% of the dose is excreted unchanged in urine.
In some studies involving longer periods of plasma sampling, a longer terminal half-life of about 15 hours was reported.
A small amount of the glucuronide conjugate is excreted in the bile, and there is some minor enterohepatic recycling.
Special Populations Geriatric Patients The pharmacokinetics of MORPHABOND have not been studied in elderly patients.
Pediatric Patients The pharmacokinetics of MORPHABOND have not been studied in pediatric patients below the age of 18.
Gender A gender analysis of pharmacokinetic data from healthy subjects taking morphine sulfate extended-release indicated that morphine concentrations were similar in males and females.
Race Chinese subjects given intravenous morphine had a higher clearance when compared to Caucasian subjects (1852 +/-116 ml/min compared to 1495 +/-80 ml/min).
Hepatic Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics are altered in individuals with cirrhosis.
Clearance was found to decrease with a corresponding increase in half-life.
The M3G and M6G to morphine plasma 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.
Clinical Pharmacology CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Mechanism 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.
Pharmacodynamics CNS Depressant/Alcohol Interaction Additive pharmacodynamic effects may be expected when ARYMO ER is used in conjunction with alcohol, other opioids, or illicit drugs that cause central nervous system depression.
Effects On The Central Nervous System The principal actions of therapeutic value of morphine are analgesia and sedation.
Specific CNS opioid receptors for endogenous compounds with opioid-like activity have been identified throughout the brain and spinal cord and are likely to play a role in the expression of analgesic effects.
Morphine produces respiratory depression by direct action on brainstem respiratory centers.
The mechanism of respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brainstem 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 narcotic 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 with 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 and in the duodenum.
Digestion of food is delayed in the small intestine 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 the sphincter of Oddi, and transient elevations in serum amylase.
Effects On 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, and sweating and/or orthostatic hypotension.
Effects On The Endocrine System Opioids inhibit the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol and luteinizing hormone (LH) in humans [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
They also stimulate prolactin, growth hormone (GH) secretion, and pancreatic secretion of insulin and glucagon.
Chronic use of opioids 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].
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 potent agonist opioids.
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].
Concentration-Adverse Reaction Relationships There is a relationship between increasing morphine 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].
Pharmacokinetics ARYMO ER is an extended-release tablet containing morphine sulfate.
Morphine is released from ARYMO ER more slowly than from immediate-release oral preparations.
Following oral administration of a given dose of morphine, the amount ultimately absorbed is essentially the same whether the source is ARYMO ER or an immediate-release formulation.
Because of pre-systemic elimination (i.e., metabolism in the gut wall and liver) only about 40% of the administered dose reaches the central compartment.
Absorption The oral bioavailability of morphine is approximately 20 to 40%.
When ARYMO ER is given on a fixed dosing regimen, steady-state is achieved in about a day.
Food Effect The effect of food upon the systemic bioavailability of ARYMO ER has been evaluated.
In a food effect study with ARYMO ER 60 mg, there was no significant difference in peak plasma concentration (Cmax) or overall exposure (AUC0-24h).
There was a 2-hour delay in median Tmax value (6.5 hour with food compared to 4.5 hour without food) when ARYMO ER was administered with a high fat meal compared to the fasted state.
The extent of food effect is not considered clinically significant so ARYMO ER can be taken without regard to food.
Distribution Once absorbed, morphine is distributed to skeletal muscle, kidneys, liver, intestinal tract, lungs, spleen, and brain.
Morphine also crosses placental membranes and has been found in breast milk.
The volume of distribution (Vd) for morphine is approximately 3 to 4 liters per kilogram and morphine is 30 to 35% reversibly bound to plasma proteins.
Elimination Metabolism The major pathways of morphine metabolism include glucuronidation to produce metabolites including morphine-3-glucuronide, M3G (about 50%) and morphine-6-glucuronide, M6G (about 5 to 15%) and sulfation in the liver to produce morphine-3-etheral sulfate.
A small fraction (less than 5%) of morphine is demethylated.
M6G has been shown to have analgesic activity but crosses the blood-brain barrier poorly, while M3G has no significant analgesic activity.
Excretion The elimination of morphine occurs primarily as renal excretion of M3G and its effective half-life after intravenous administration is normally 2 to 4 hours.
Approximately 10% of the dose is excreted unchanged in urine.
In some studies involving longer periods of plasma sampling, a longer terminal half-life of about 15 hours was reported.
A small amount of the glucuronide conjugate is excreted in the bile, and there is some minor enterohepatic recycling.
Specific Populations Sex A sex analysis of pharmacokinetic data from healthy subjects taking morphine sulfate extended-release indicated that morphine concentrations were similar in males and females.
Race Chinese subjects given intravenous morphine had a higher clearance when compared to Caucasian subjects (1852 +/- 116 mL/min compared to 1495 +/- 80 mL/min).
Hepatic Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics are altered in individuals with cirrhosis.
Clearance was found to decrease with a corresponding increase in half-life.
The M3G and M6G to morphine plasma 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.
Drug Description MORPHINE (morphine sulfate) Extended-release Tablets WARNING ADDICTION, ABUSE, and MISUSE; LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION; ACCIDENTAL INGESTION; and NEONATAL OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets expose 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 morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, and monitor all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors or conditions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets or following a dose increase.
Instruct patients to swallow morphine sulfate extended-release tablets whole; crushing, chewing, or dis solving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets can cause rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of morphine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Accidental Ingestion Accidental ingestion of even one dose of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of morphine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Prolonged use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts.
If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
DESCRIPTION Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets are for oral use and contain morphine sulfate, an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor.
Each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients common to all strengths: cetostearyl alcohol, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, talc, and titanium dioxide.
The tablet strengths describe the amount of morphine per tablet as the pentahydrated sulfate salt (morphine sulfate).
The 15 mg tablets also contain: FD&C Blue No.
2, lactose monohydrate, polysorbate 80 The 30 mg tablets also contain: D&C Red No.
7, FD&C Blue No.
1, lactose monohydrate, polysorbate 80 The 60 mg tablets also contain: D&C Red No.
30, D&C Yellow No.
10, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate The 100 mg tablets also contain: black iron oxide The 200 mg tablets also contain: D&C Yellow No.
10, FD&C Blue No.
1, hydroxypropyl cellulose Morphine sulfate 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 pKb is 7.9 for the tertiary nitrogen (mostly ionized at pH 7.4).
Its structural formula is:
Drug Description MORPHABOND ™ (morphine sulfate) Extended-release Tablets WARNING ADDICTION, ABUSE, and MISUSE; LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION; ACCIDENTAL INGESTION; and NEONATAL OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse MORPHABOND™ 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 MORPHABOND, and monitor all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors or conditions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of MORPHABOND.
Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of MORPHABOND or following a dose increase.
Instruct patients to swallow MORPHABOND tablets whole; crushing, chewing, or dissolving MORPHABOND tablets can cause rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of morphine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Accidental Ingestion Accidental ingestion of even one dose of MORPHABOND, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of morphine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Prolonged use of MORPHABOND during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts.
If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
DESCRIPTION MORPHABOND (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets are for oral use and contain morphine sulfate, an opioid agonist.
Each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients common to all strengths: hypromellose, xanthan gum, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium alginate, alginic acid, mannitol, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate copolymer dispersion, lactose monohydrate, polysorbate 80, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, shellac in ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, iron oxide black, n-butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, and ammonium hydroxide.
The tablet strengths describe the amount of morphine per tablet as the pentahydrated sulfate salt (morphine sulfate).
The 15 mg tablets also contain: FD&C Blue No.
1, FD&C Red No.
40 and FD&C Yellow No.
6 The 30 mg tablets also contain: FD&C Blue No.
2 and FD&C Red No.
40 The 60 mg tablets also contain: FD&C Yellow No.
6 and FD&C Red No.
40 The 100 mg tablets also contain: FD&C Blue No.
2, FD&C Yellow No.
6 and FD&C Red No.
40 Morphine sulfate 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 pKb is 7.9 for the tertiary nitrogen (mostly ionized at pH 7.4).
Its structural formula is:
Drug Description ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) Extended-release Tablets WARNING ADDICTION, ABUSE, and MISUSE; LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION; ACCIDENTAL INGESTION; NEONATAL OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME; AND RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH BENZODIAZEPINES OR OTHER CNS DEPRESSANTS Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse ARYMO™ ER 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 ARYMO ER, and monitor all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors or conditions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of ARYMO ER.
Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of ARYMO ER or following a dose increase.
Instruct patients to swallow ARYMO ER tablets whole; crushing, chewing, or dissolving ARYMO ER tablets can cause rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of morphine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Accidental Ingestion Accidental ingestion of even one dose of ARYMO ER, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of morphine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Prolonged use of ARYMO ER during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts.
If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
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 [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Reserve concomitant prescribing of ARYMO ER and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.
Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
DESCRIPTION ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets are for oral use and contain morphine sulfate, an opioid agonist.
Each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients common to all strengths: polyethylene oxide 400,000, butylated hydroxytoluene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol 3350, talc, and titanium dioxide.
The tablet strengths describe the amount of morphine per tablet as the pentahydrated sulfate salt (morphine sulfate).
The 15 mg tablets also contain: FD&C Blue No.
2 and ferric oxide yellow.
The 30 mg tablets also contain: ferric oxide red, FD&C Blue No.
2, and ferrosoferric oxide.
The 60 mg tablets also contain: ferric oxide yellow, and ferric oxide red.
Morphine sulfate is an odorless, white crystalline solid with a bitter taste.
It has a solubility of 1 in 21 parts of water and 1 in 1000 parts of alcohol, and 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 (mostly ionized at pH 7.4).
Its structural formula is:
Indications & Dosage INDICATIONS Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Limitations Of Use Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse with opioids, even at recommended doses, and because of the the greater risks of overdose and death with extended-release opioid formulations, reserve morphine sulfate extended-release tablets for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options (e.g., non-opioid analgesics or immediate-release opioids) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are not indicated as an as-needed (prn) analgesic.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Initial Dosing Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable in the use of potent opioids for the management of chronic pain.
Initiate the dosing regimen for each patient individually, taking into account the patient's prior analgesic treatment experience and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Monitor patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24 to 72 hours of initiating therapy with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets must be taken whole.
Crushing, chewing, or dissolving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets will result in uncontrolled delivery of morphine and can lead to overdose or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Use Of Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets As The First Opioid Analgesic Initiate treatment with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets with 15 mg tablets orally every 8 or 12 hours.
Use Of Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets In Patients Who Are Not Opioid Tolerant The starting dose for patients, who are not opioid-tolerant, is morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 15 mg orally every 12 hours.
Patients who are opioid-tolerant are those receiving, for one week or longer, at least 60 mg oral morphine per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg oral oxycodone per day, 8 mg oral hydromorphone per day, 25 mg oral oxymorphone per day, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid.
Use of higher starting doses in patients who are not opioid tolerant may cause fatal respiratory depression.
Conversion From Other Oral Morphine To Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets Patients receiving other oral morphine formulations may be converted to morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets by administering one-half of the patient's 24-hour requirement as morphine sulfate extended-release tablets on an every-12-hour schedule or by administering one-third of the patient's daily requirement as morphine sulfate extended-release tablets on an every-8-hour schedule.
Conversion From Other Opioids To Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets There are no established conversion ratios for conversion from other opioids to morphine sulfate extended-release tablets defined by clinical trials.
Discontinue all other around-the-clock opioid drugs when morphine sulfate extended-release tablets therapy is initiated and initiate dosing using morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 15 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours.
It is safer to underestimate a patient’s 24-hour oral morphine requirements and provide rescue medication (e.g., immediate-release morphine) than to overestimate the 24-hour oral morphine requirements and manage an adverse reaction.
While useful tables of opioid equivalents are readily available, there is substantial inter-patient variability in the relative potency of different opioid drugs and products.
Conversion From Parenteral Morphine Or Other Opioids (Parenteral Or Oral) To Morphine Sulfate Extended- Release Tablets When converting from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids (parenteral or oral) to morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, consider the following general points: Parenteral to oral morphine ratio: Between 2 to 6 mg of oral morphine may be required to provide analgesia equivalent to 1 mg of parenteral morphine.
Typically, a dose of morphine that is approximately three times the previous daily parenteral morphine requirement is sufficient.
Other parenteral or oral non-morphine opioids to oral morphine sulfate: Specific recommendations are not available because of a lack of systematic evidence for these types of analgesic substitutions.
Published relative potency data are available, but such ratios are approximations.
In general, begin with half of the estimated daily morphine requirement as the initial dose, managing inadequate analgesia by supplementation with immediate-release morphine.
Conversion From Methadone To Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets Close monitoring is of particular importance when converting methadone to other opioid agonists.
The ratio between methadone and other opioid agonists may vary widely as a function of previous dose exposure.
Methadone has a long half-life and can accumulate in the plasma.
Titration And Maintenance Of Therapy Individually titrate morphine sulfate extended-release tablets to a dose that provides adequate analgesia and minimizes adverse reactions.
Continually reevaluate patients receiving morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets to assess the maintenance of pain control and the relative incidence of adverse reactions, as well as monitoring for the development of addiction, abuse, or misuse.
Frequent communication is important among the prescriber, other members of the healthcare team, the patient, and the caregiver/family during periods of changing analgesic requirements, including initial titration.
During chronic therapy periodically reassess the continued need for the use of opioid analgesics.
Patients who experience breakthrough pain may require a dose increase of morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets, or may need rescue medication with an appropriate dose of an immediate-release analgesic.
If the level of pain increases after dose stabilization, attempt to identify the source of increased pain before increasing the morphine sulfate extended-release tablets dose.
Because steadystate plasma concentrations are approximated in 1 day, morphine sulfate extended-release tablets dosage adjustments may be done every 1 to 2 days.
If unacceptable opioid-related adverse reactions are observed, the subsequent doses may be reduced.
Adjust the dose to obtain an appropriate balance between management of pain and opioid-related adverse reactions.
Discontinuation Of Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets When the patient no longer requires therapy with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, use a gradual downward titration of the dose to prevent signs and symptoms of withdrawal in the physicallydependent patient.
Do not abruptly discontinue morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Administration Of Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets must be taken whole.
Crushing, chewing, or dissolving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets will result in uncontrolled delivery of morphine and can lead to overdose or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
HOW SUPPLIED Dosage Forms And Strengths Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 15 mg Round, blue-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 15 on the other Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 30 mg Round, lavender-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 30 on the other Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 60 mg Round, orange-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 60 on the other Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 100 mg* Round, gray-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 100 on the other Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 200 mg* Capsule-shaped, green-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 200 on the other *100 mg and 200 mg tablets are for us e in opioid-tolerant patients only Storage And Handling Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 15 mg are round, blue-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 15 on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 42858-801-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 30 mg are round, lavender-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 30 on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 42858-802-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 60 mg are round, orange-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 60 on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 42858-803-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 100 mg are round, gray-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 100 on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 42858-804-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets 200 mg are capsule-shaped, green-colored, film-coated tablets bearing the symbol ABG on one side and 200 on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 42858-805-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted between 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F).
Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.
CAUTION DEA FORM REQUIRED Manufactured by: Purdue Pharmaceuticals, L.P.
Wilson, NC 27893.
Revised: May 2015
Indications & Dosage INDICATIONS MORPHABOND is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Limitations of Use Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse with opioids, even at recommended doses, and because of the greater risks of overdose and death with extended-release opioid formulations, reserve MORPHABOND for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options (e.g., non-opioid analgesics or immediate-release opioids) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.
MORPHABOND is not indicated as an as-needed (prn) analgesic.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Important Dosage And Administration Instructions MORPHABOND should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable in the use of potent opioids for the management of chronic pain.
MORPHABOND 100mg tablets, a single dose greater than 60 mg, or a total daily dose greater than 120 mg, are only for use in patients in whom tolerance to an opioid of comparable potency has been established.
Patients who are opioid tolerant are those receiving, for one week or longer, at least 60 mg oral morphine per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg oral oxycodone per day, 8 mg oral hydromorphone per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 25 mg oral oxymorphone per day, 60 mg oral hydromorphone per day, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid.
MORPHABOND tablets must be taken whole.
Crushing, chewing, or dissolving MORPHABOND tablets will result in uncontrolled delivery of morphine and can lead to overdose or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Monitor patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy and following dosage increases with MORPHABOND and adjust the dosage accordingly [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
MORPHABOND is administered orally every 12 hours.
Initial Dosing Initiate the dosing regimen for each patient individually, taking into account the patient's prior analgesic treatment experience and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Monitor patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy with MORPHABOND [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Use of MORPHABOND as the First Opioid Analgesic Initiate treatment with MORPHABOND with 15 mg tablets orally every 12 hours.
Use of MORPHABOND in Patients who are not Opioid Tolerant (opioid-naïve patients) The starting dosage for patients who are not opioid tolerant is MORPHABOND 15 mg orally every 12 hours.
Use of higher starting doses in patients who are not opioid tolerant may cause fatal respiratory depression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Conversion from Other Oral Morphine to MORPHABOND Patients receiving other oral morphine formulations may be converted to MORPHABOND by administering one-half of the patient's 24-hour requirement as MORPHABOND on an every-12-hour schedule.
Conversion from Other Opioids to MORPHABOND Discontinue all other around-the-clock opioid drugs when MORPHABOND therapy is initiated There are no established conversion ratios for conversion from other opioids to MORPHABOND defined by clinical trials.
Initiate dosing using MORPHABOND 15 mg orally every 12 hours.
It is safer to underestimate a patient's 24-hour oral morphine dosage and provide rescue medication (e.g., immediate-release morphine) than to overestimate the 24-hour oral morphine dosage and manage an adverse reaction due to an overdose.
While useful tables of opioid equivalents are readily available, there is substantial inter-patient variability in the relative potency of different opioid drugs and products.
Conversion from Parenteral Morphine or Other Opioids (Parenteral or Oral) to MORPHABOND When converting from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids (parenteral or oral) to MORPHABOND, consider the following general points: Parenteral to oral morphine ratio: Between 2 to 6 mg of oral morphine may be required to provide analgesia equivalent to 1 mg of parenteral morphine.
Typically, a dose of morphine that is approximately three times the previous daily parenteral morphine requirement is sufficient.
Other parenteral or oral non-morphine opioids to oral morphine sulfate: Specific recommendations are not available because of a lack of systematic evidence for these types of analgesic substitutions.
Published relative potency data are available, but such ratios are approximations.
In general, begin with half of the estimated daily morphine requirement as the initial dose, managing inadequate analgesia by supplementation with immediate-release morphine.
Conversion from Methadone to MORPHABOND Close monitoring is of particular importance when converting methadone to other opioid agonists.
The ratio between methadone and other opioid agonists may vary widely as a function of previous dose exposure.
Methadone has a long half-life and can accumulate in the plasma.
Titration And Maintenance Of Therapy Individually titrate MORPHABOND to a dose that provides adequate analgesia and minimizes adverse reactions.
Continually reevaluate patients receiving MORPHABOND to assess the maintenance of pain control and the relative incidence of adverse reactions, as well as monitoring for the development of addiction, abuse, or misuse.
Frequent communication is important among the prescriber, other members of the healthcare team, the patient, and the caregiver/family during periods of changing analgesic requirements, including initial titration.
During chronic therapy periodically reassess the continued need for the use of opioid analgesics.
Patients who experience breakthrough pain may require a dose increase of MORPHABOND, or may need rescue medication with an appropriate dose of an immediate-release analgesic.
If the level of pain increases after dose stabilization, attempt to identify the source of increased pain before increasing the MORPHABOND dose.
Because steady-state plasma concentrations are approximated in 1 day, MORPHABOND dosage adjustments may be done every 1 to 2 days.
If unacceptable opioid-related adverse reactions are observed, the subsequent dosages may be reduced.
Adjust the dosage to obtain an appropriate balance between management of pain and opioid-related adverse reactions.
Discontinuation Of MORPHABOND When the patient no longer requires therapy with MORPHABOND tablets, use a gradual downward titration of the dose to prevent signs and symptoms of withdrawal in the physically-dependent patient.
Do not abruptly discontinue MORPHABOND.
HOW SUPPLIED Dosage Forms And Strengths 15 mg extended-release tablets (round, blue-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with “IDT/M15” on one side; and plain on the other) 30 mg extended-release tablets (round, purple-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with “IDT/M30” on one side; and plain on the other) 60 mg extended-release tablets (round, orange-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with “IDT/M60” on one side; and plain on the other) 100 mg extended-release tablets* (round, gray-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with “IDT/M100” on one side; and plain on the other) *100 mg tablets are for use in opioid-tolerant patients only Storage And Handling MORPHABOND™ (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 15 mg are round, blue-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with IDT/M15 on one side; and plain on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 69296-004-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets MORPHABOND™ (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 30 mg are round, purple-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with IDT/M30 on one side; and plain on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 69296-003-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets MORPHABOND™ (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 60 mg are round, orange-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with IDT/M60 on one side; and plain on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 69296-002-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets MORPHABOND™ (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 100 mg are round, gray-colored, coated tablets ink-printed with IDT/M100 on one side; and plain on the other.
They are supplied as follows: NDC 69296-001-01: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).
Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.
CAUTION DEA FORM REQUIRED Manufactured for Inspirion Delivery Technologies LLC by Cerovene, Valley Cottage, NY 10989.
Revised: Oct 2015
Indications & Dosage INDICATIONS ARYMO ER is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-theclock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Limitations Of Use Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse with opioids, even at recommended doses, and because of the greater risks of overdose and death with extended-release opioid formulations [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS], reserve ARYMO ER for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options (e.g., non-opioid analgesics or immediate-release opioids) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.
ARYMO ER is not indicated as an as-needed (prn) analgesic.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Important Dosage And Administration Instructions ARYMO ER should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable in the use of potent opioids for the management of chronic pain.
A single dose of ARYMO ER greater than 60 mg, or a total daily dose greater than 120 mg, are only for use in patients in whom tolerance to an opioid of comparable potency has been established.
Patients who are opioid tolerant are those receiving, for one week or longer, at least 60 mg oral morphine per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg oral oxycodone per day, 8 mg oral hydromorphone per day, 25 mg oral oxymorphone per day, 60 mg oral hydrocodone per day, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid.
Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Initiate the dosing regimen for each patient individually, taking into account the patient's severity of pain, patient response, prior analgesic treatment experience, and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Monitor patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy and following dosage increases with ARYMO ER and adjust the dosage accordingly [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to take ARYMO ER tablets whole, one tablet at a time, with enough water to ensure complete swallowing immediately after placing in the mouth [see PATIENT INFORMATION].
Instruct patients not to pre-soak, lick, or otherwise wet the tablet prior to placing in the mouth [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Cutting, breaking, crushing, chewing, or dissolving ARYMO ER tablets will result in uncontrolled delivery of morphine that could lead to overdose and death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
ARYMO ER is administered orally every 8 or 12 hours.
Initial Dosing Use Of ARYMO ER As The First Opioid Analgesic (opioid-naïve patients) Initiate treatment with ARYMO ER with 15 mg tablets orally every 8 or 12 hours.
Use Of ARYMO ER In Patients Who Are Not Opioid Tolerant (opioid-non-tolerant patients) The starting dose for patients who are not opioid tolerant is ARYMO ER 15 mg orally every 8 or 12 hours.
Use of higher starting doses in patients who are not opioid tolerant may cause fatal respiratory depression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Conversion From Other Oral Morphine To ARYMO ER Patients receiving other oral morphine formulations may be converted to ARYMO ER by administering one-half of the patient's 24-hour requirement as ARYMO ER on an every-12-hour schedule or by administering one-third of the patient's daily requirement as ARYMO ER on an every-8-hour schedule.
Conversion From Other Opioids To ARYMO ER Discontinue all other around-the-clock opioid drugs when ARYMO ER therapy is initiated.
There are no established conversion ratios for conversion from other opioids to ARYMO ER defined by clinical trials.
Initiate dosing using ARYMO ER 15 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours.
It is safer to underestimate a patient's 24-hour oral morphine dosage and provide rescue medication (e.g., immediate-release morphine) than to overestimate the 24-hour oral morphine dosage and manage an adverse reaction due to an overdose.
While useful tables of opioid equivalents are readily available, there is inter-patient variability in the potency of opioid drugs and opioid formulations.
Close observation and frequent titration are warranted until pain management is stable on the new opioid.
Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of opioid withdrawal and for signs of oversedation/toxicity after converting patients to ARYMO ER.
Conversion From Parenteral Morphine Or Other Opioids (Parenteral or Oral) To ARYMO ER When converting from parenteral morphine or other non-morphine opioids (parenteral or oral) to ARYMO ER, consider the following general points: Parenteral to oral morphine ratio: Between 2 to 6 mg of oral morphine may be required to provide analgesia equivalent to 1 mg of parenteral morphine.
Typically, a dose of morphine that is approximately three times the previous daily parenteral morphine requirement is sufficient.
Other parenteral or oral non-morphine opioids to oral morphine sulfate: Specific recommendations are not available because of a lack of systematic evidence for these types of analgesic substitutions.
Published relative potency data are available, but such ratios are approximations.
In general, begin with half of the estimated daily morphine requirement as the initial dose, managing inadequate analgesia by supplementation with immediate-release morphine.
Conversion From Methadone To ARYMO ER Close monitoring is of particular importance when converting methadone to other opioid agonists.
The ratio between methadone and other opioid agonists may vary widely as a function of previous dose exposure.
Methadone has a long half-life and can accumulate in the plasma.
Titration And Maintenance Of Therapy Individually titrate ARYMO ER to a dose that provides adequate analgesia and minimizes adverse reactions.
Continually reevaluate patients receiving ARYMO ER to assess the maintenance of pain control and the relative incidence of adverse reactions, as well as monitoring for the development of addiction, abuse, or misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Frequent communication is important among the prescriber, other members of the healthcare team, the patient, and the caregiver/family during periods of changing analgesic requirements, including initial titration.
During chronic therapy periodically reassess the continued need for the use of opioid analgesics.
Patients who experience breakthrough pain may require a dose increase of ARYMO ER, or may need rescue medication with an appropriate dose of an immediate-release analgesic.
If the level of pain increases after dose stabilization, attempt to identify the source of increased pain before increasing the ARYMO ER dose.
Because steady-state plasma concentrations are approximated in 1 day, ARYMO ER dosage adjustments may be done every 1 to 2 days.
If unacceptable opioid-related adverse reactions are observed, the subsequent doses may be reduced.
Adjust the dose to obtain an appropriate balance between management of pain and opioid-related adverse reactions.
Discontinuation Of ARYMO ER When the patient no longer requires therapy with ARYMO ER tablets, taper the dose gradually, by 25% to 50% every 2 to 4 days, while monitoring carefully for signs and symptoms of withdrawal.
If the patient develops these signs or symptoms, raise the dose to the previous level and taper more slowly, either by increasing the interval between decreases, decreasing the amount of change in dose, or both.
Do not abruptly discontinue ARYMO ER.
HOW SUPPLIED Dosage Forms And Strengths ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 15 mg blue film coated, capsule shaped tablets debossed with “EGLT 15”) ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 30 mg light purple film coated, capsule shaped tablets debossed with “EGLT 30”) ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 60 mg light orange film coated, capsule shaped tablets debossed with “EGLT 60”) Storage And Handling ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 15 mg are blue film coated, capsule shaped tablets debossed with “EGLT 15”.
They are supplied as: NDC 69344-111-11: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 30 mg are light purple film coated, capsule shaped tablets debossed with “EGLT 30”.
They are supplied as: NDC 69344-211-11: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets ARYMO™ ER (morphine sulfate) extended-release tablets 60 mg are light orange film coated, capsule shaped tablets debossed with “EGLT 60”.
They are supplied as: NDC 69344-311-11: opaque plastic bottles containing 100 tablets Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).
Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.
Distributed by: Egalet US Inc.
Wayne, PA 19087.
Revised: Jan 2017
Medication Guide PATIENT INFORMATION Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release (ER) Tablets Morphine sulfate ER tablets are: A strong prescription pain medicine that contains an opioid (narcotic) that is used to manage pain severe enough to require daily around-the-clock, long-term treatment with an opioid, when other pain treatments such as non-opioid pain medicines or immediate-release opioid medicines do not treat your pain well enough or you cannot tolerate them.
A long-acting (extended-release) opioid pain medicine that can put you at risk for overdose and death.
Even if you take your dose correctly as prescribed you are at risk for opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse that can lead to death.
Not for use to treat pain that is not around-the-clock.
Important information about morphine sulfate ER tablets: Get emergency help right away if you take too much morphine sulfate ER tablets (overdose).
When you first start taking morphine sulfate ER tablets, when your dose is changed, or if you take too much (overdose), serious or life-threatening breathing problems that can lead to death may occur.
Never give anyone else your morphine sulfate ER tablets.
They could die from taking it.
Store morphine sulfate ER tablets away from children and in a safe place to prevent stealing or abuse.
Selling or giving away morphine sulfate ER tablets is against the law.
Do not take morphine sulfate ER tablets if you have: severe asthma, trouble breathing, or other lung problems.
a bowel blockage or have narrowing of the stomach or intestines.
Before taking morphine sulfate ER tablets, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of: head injury, seizures liver, kidney, thyroid problems problems urinating pancreas or gallbladder problems abuse of street or prescription drugs, alcohol addiction, or mental health problems.
Tell your healthcare provider if you are: pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Prolonged use of morphine sulfate ER tablets during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms in your newborn baby that could be life-threatening if not recognized and treated.
breastfeeding.
Morphine sulfate ER tablets pass into breast milk and may harm your baby.
taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
Taking morphine sulfate ER tablets with certain other medicines can cause serious side effects.
When taking morphine sulfate ER tablets : Do not change your dose.
Take morphine sulfate ER tablets exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Take your prescribed dose every 8 to 12 hours, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Do not take more than your prescribed dose.
If you miss a dose, take your next dose at the usual time.
Swallow morphine sulfate ER tablets whole.
Do not cut, break, chew, crush, dissolve, snort, or inject morphine sulfate ER tablets because this may cause you to overdose and die.
Call your healthcare provider if the dose you are taking does not control your pain.
Do not stop taking morphine sulfate ER tablets without talking to your healthcare provider.
After you stop taking morphine sulfate ER tablets, flush any unused tablets down the toilet.
While taking morphine sulfate ER tablets DO NOT: Drive or operate heavy machinery, until you know how morphine sulfate ER tablets affect you.
Morphine sulfate ER tablets can make you sleepy, dizzy, or lightheaded.
Drink alcohol or use prescription or over-the-counter medicines that contain alcohol.
Using products containing alcohol during treatment with morphine sulfate ER tablets may cause you to overdose and die.
The possible side effects of morphine sulfate ER tablets are: constipation, nausea, sleepiness, vomiting, tiredness, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain.
Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms and they are severe.
Get emergency medical help if you have: trouble breathing, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, chest pain, swelling of your face, tongue or throat, extreme drowsiness, light-headedness when changing positions, or you are feeling faint.
These are not all the possible side effects of morphine sulfate ER tablets.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
For more information go to dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Medication Guide PATIENT INFORMATION MORPHABOND™ ('mor-'fa-'band) (morphine sulfate) Extended-release Tablets MORPHABOND is: A strong prescription pain medicine that contains an opioid (narcotic) that is used to manage pain severe enough to require daily around-the-clock, long-term treatment with an opioid, when other pain treatments such as non-opioid pain medicines or immediate-release opioid medicines do not treat your pain well enough or you cannot tolerate them.
A long-acting (extended-release) opioid pain medicine that can put you at risk for overdose and death.
Even if you take your dose correctly as prescribed you are at risk for opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse that can lead to death.
Not for use to treat pain that is not around-the-clock.
Important information about MORPHABOND: Get emergency help right away if you take too much MORPHABOND (overdose).
When you first start taking MORPHABOND, when your dose is changed, or if you take too much (overdose), serious or life-threatening breathing problems that can lead to death may occur.
Never give anyone your MORPHABOND.
They could die from taking it.
Store MORPHABOND away from children and in a safe place to prevent stealing or abuse.
Selling or giving away MORPHABOND is against the law.
Do not take MORPHABOND if you have: severe asthma, trouble breathing, or other lung problems.
a bowel blockage or have narrowing of the stomach or intestines.
Before taking MORPHABOND, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of: head injury, seizures liver, kidney, thyroid problems problems urinating pancreas or gallbladder problems abuse of street or prescription drugs, alcohol addiction, or mental health problems Tell your healthcare provider if you are: pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Prolonged use of MORPHABOND during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms in your newborn baby that could be life-threatening if not recognized and treated.
breastfeeding.
Not recommended; may harm your baby.
taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
Taking MORPHABOND with certain other medicines can cause serious side effects and could lead to death.
When taking MORPHABOND: Do not change your dose.
Take MORPHABOND exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Take your prescribed dose every 12 hours, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Do not take more than your prescribed dose.
If you miss a dose, take your next dose at the usual time.
Swallow MORPHABOND whole.
Do not cut, break, chew, crush, dissolve, snort, or inject MORPHABOND because this may cause you to overdose and die.
Call your healthcare provider if the dose you are taking does not control your pain.
Do not stop taking MORPHABOND without talking to your healthcare provider.
After you stop taking MORPHABOND, flush any unused tablets down the toilet.
While taking MORPHABOND DO NOT: Drive or operate heavy machinery, until you know how MORPHABOND affects you.
MORPHABOND can make you sleepy, dizzy, or lightheaded.
Drink alcohol or use prescription or over-the-counter medicines that contain alcohol.
Using products containing alcohol during treatment with MORPHABOND may cause you to overdose and die.
The possible side effects of MORPHABOND are: constipation, nausea, sleepiness, vomiting, tiredness, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain.
Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms and they are severe.
Get emergency medical help if you have: trouble breathing, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, chest pain, swelling of your face, tongue or throat, extreme drowsiness, light-headedness when changing positions, or you are feeling faint.
These are not all the possible side effects of MORPHABOND.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
For more information go to dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Medication Guide PATIENT INFORMATION ARYMO™ ER (AIR i mow) (morphine sulfate) Extended-release Tablets ARYMO ER is: A strong prescription pain medicine that contains an opioid (narcotic) that is used to manage pain severe enough to require daily around-the-clock, long-term treatment with an opioid, when other pain treatments such as non-opioid pain medicines or immediate-release opioid medicines do not treat your pain well enough or you cannot tolerate them.
A long-acting (extended-release) opioid pain medicine that can put you at risk for overdose and death.
Even if you take your dose correctly as prescribed you are at risk for opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse that can lead to death.
Not for use to treat pain that is not around-the-clock.
Important information about ARYMO ER: Get emergency help right away if you take too much ARYMO ER (overdose).
When you first start taking ARYMO ER, when your dose is changed, or if you take too much (overdose), serious or life-threatening breathing problems that can lead to death may occur.
Taking ARYMO ER with other opioid medicines, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants (including street drugs) can cause severe drowsiness, decreased awareness, breathing problems, coma, and death.
Never give anyone else your ARYMO ER.
They could die from taking it.
Store ARYMO ER away from children and in a safe place to prevent stealing or abuse.
Selling or giving away ARYMO ER is against the law.
Do not take ARYMO ER if you have: severe asthma, trouble breathing, or other lung problems.
a bowel blockage or have narrowing of the stomach or intestines.
Before taking ARYMO ER, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of: head injury, seizures problems urinating liver, kidney, thyroid problems pancreas or gallbladder problems abuse of street or prescription drugs, alcohol addiction, or mental health problems.
Tell your healthcare provider if you are: pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Prolonged use of ARYMO ER during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms in your newborn baby that could be life-threatening if not recognized and treated.
breastfeeding.
Not recommended during treatment with ARYMO ER.
It may harm your baby.
taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
Taking ARYMO ER with certain other medicines can cause serious side effects and could lead to death.
When taking ARYMO ER: Do not change your dose.
Take ARYMO ER exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Use the lowest dose possible for the shortest time needed.
Take your prescribed dose every 8 to 12 hours, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Do not take more than your prescribed dose.
If you miss a dose, take your next dose at the usual time.
Swallow ARYMO ER whole.
Do not cut, break, chew, crush, dissolve, snort, or inject ARYMO ER because this may cause you to overdose and die.
ARYMO ER should be taken one tablet at a time.
Do not pre-soak, lick, or wet the tablet before placing in your mouth to avoid choking on the tablet.
Call your healthcare provider if the dose you are taking does not control your pain.
Do not stop taking ARYMO ER without talking to your healthcare provider.
After you stop taking ARYMO ER, flush any unused tablets down the toilet.
While taking ARYMO ER DO NOT: Drive or operate heavy machinery, until you know how ARYMO ER affects you.
ARYMO ER can make you sleepy, dizzy, or lightheaded.
Drink alcohol or use prescription or over-the-counter medicines that contain alcohol.
Using products containing alcohol during treatment with ARYMO ER may cause you to overdose and die.
The possible side effects of ARYMO ER are: constipation, nausea, sleepiness, vomiting, tiredness, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain.
Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms and they are severe.
Get emergency medical help if you have: trouble breathing, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, chest pain, swelling of your face, tongue, or throat, extreme drowsiness, lightheadedness when changing positions, feeling faint, agitation, high body temperature, trouble walking, stiff muscles, or mental changes such as confusion.
These are not all the possible side effects of ARYMO ER.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
For more information go to dailymed.nlm.nih.gov Healthcare professionals can telephone Egalet US Inc.'s Medical Information Department (1800-518-1084) for information on this product.
Overdosage & Contraindications Side Effects & Drug Interactions SIDE EFFECTS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Interactions with Other CNS Depressants [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Hypotensive Effect [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Gastrointestinal Effects [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Seizures [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may increase the risk of serious adverse reactions such as those observed with other opioid analgesics, including respiratory depression, apnea, respiratory arrest, circulatory depression, hypotension, or shock [see OVERDOSE].
Most Frequently Observed Reactions In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets were constipation, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dysphoria, and euphoric mood.
Some of these effects seem to be more prominent in ambulatory patients and in those not experiencing severe pain.
Less Frequently Observed Reactions Cardiovascular disorders: tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations Eye disorders: visual impairment, vision blurred, diplopia, miosis Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia General disorders and administration site conditions: chills, feeling abnormal, edema, edema peripheral, weakness Hepatobiliary disorders: biliary colic Metabolism and nutrition disorders: anorexia Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: muscle rigidity, muscle twitching Nervous system disorders: presyncope, syncope, headache, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movements, convulsion, intracranial pressure increased, taste alteration, paresthesia, nystagmus Psychiatric disorders: agitation, mood altered, anxiety, depression, abnormal dreams, hallucination, disorientation, insomnia Renal and urinary disorders: urinary retention, urinary hesitation, antidiuretic effects Reproductive system and breast disorders: reduced libido and/or potency Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: laryngospasm Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pruritus, urticaria, rash Vascular disorders: flushing, hypotension, hypertension Post-Marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets: amenorrhea, asthenia, bronchospasm, confusional state, drug hypersensitivity, fatigue, hyperalgesia, hypertonia, ileus, increased hepatic enzymes, intestinal obstruction, lethargy, malaise, pulmonary edema, thinking disturbances, somnolence, and vertigo.
Anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention.
DRUG INTERACTIONS CNS Depressants The concomitant use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets with other CNS depressants including sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, other opioids, and alcohol can increase the risk of respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death.
Monitor patients receiving CNS depressants and morphine sulfate extended-release tablets for signs of respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension.
When combined therapy with any of the above medications is considered, the dose of one or both agents should be reduced [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Interactions With Mixed Agonist/Antagonist And Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics Mixed agonist/antagonist (i.e., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) and partial agonist (buprenorphine) analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets or precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
Avoid the use of agonist/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics in patients receiving morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Muscle Relaxants Morphine may enhance the neuromuscular blocking action of skeletal muscle relaxants and produce an increased degree of respiratory depression.
Monitor patients receiving muscle relaxants and morphine sulfate extended-release tablets for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs ) The effects of morphine may be potentiated by MAOIs.
Monitor patients on concurrent therapy with an MAOI and morphine sulfate extended-release tablets for increased respiratory and central nervous system depression.
MAOIs have been reported to potentiate the effects of morphine anxiety, confusion, and significant depression of respiration or coma.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets should not be used in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment.
Cimetidine Cimetidine can potentiate morphine-induced respiratory depression.
There is a report of confusion and severe respiratory depression when a patient undergoing hemodialysis was concurrently administered morphine and cimetidine.
Monitor patients for respiratory depression when morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets and cimetidine are used concurrently.
Diuretics Morphine can reduce the efficacy of diuretics by inducing the release of antidiuretic hormone.
Morphine may also lead to acute retention of urine by causing spasm of the sphincter of the bladder, particularly in men with enlarged prostates.
Anticholinergics Anticholinergics or other medications with anticholinergic activity when used concurrently with opioid analgesics may result in increased risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus.
Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are used concurrently with anticholinergic drugs.
P-Glycoprotein (PGP) Inhibitors PGP-inhibitors (e.g., quinidine) may increase the absorption/exposure of morphine sulfate by about twofold.
Therefore, monitor patients for signs of respiratory and central nervous system depression when morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are used concurrently with PGP inhibitors.
Drug Abuse And Dependence Controlled Substance Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets contain morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for abuse similar to other opioids including fentanyl, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets can be abused and is subject to misuse, addiction, and criminal diversion [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The high drug content in extended-release formulations adds to the risk of adverse outcomes from abuse and misuse.
Abuse All patients treated with opioids require careful monitoring for signs of abuse and addiction, since use of opioid analgesic products carries the risk of addiction even under appropriate medical use.
Drug abuse is the intentional non-therapeutic use of an over-the-counter or prescription drug, even once, for its rewarding psychological or physiological effects.
Drug abuse includes, but is not limited to the following examples: the use of a prescription or over-the-counter drug to get “high”, or the use of steroids for performance enhancement and muscle build up.
Drug addiction is a cluster of behavioral, cognitive, and physiological phenomena that develop after repeated substance use and include: a strong desire to take the drug, difficulties in controlling its use, persisting in its use despite harmful consequences, a higher priority given to drug use than to other activities and obligations, increased tolerance , and sometimes a physical withdrawal.
"Drug seeking" behavior is very common to addicts and drug abusers.
Drug-seeking tactics include emergency calls or visits near the end of office hours, refusal to undergo appropriate examination, testing or referral, repeated claims of loss of prescriptions, tampering with prescriptions and reluctance to provide prior medical records or contact information for other treating physician(s).
“Doctor shopping” (visiting multiple prescribers) to obtain additional prescriptions is common among drug abusers and people suffering from untreated addiction.
Preoccupation with achieving adequate pain relief can be appropriate behavior in a patient with poor pain control.
Abuse and addiction are separate and distinct from physical dependence and tolerance.
Physicians should be aware that addiction may not be accompanied by concurrent tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence in all addicts.
In addition, abuse of opioids can occur in the absence of true addiction.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, like other opioids, can be diverted for non-medical use into illicit channels of distribution.
Careful recordkeeping of prescribing information, including quantity, frequency, and renewal requests as required by state 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 reduce abuse of opioid drugs.
Risks Specific To Abuse Of Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are for oral use only.
Abuse of morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets poses a risk of overdose and death.
This risk is increased with concurrent abuse of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets with alcohol and other substances.
Taking cut, broken, chewed, crushed, or dissolved morphine sulfate extended-release tablets enhances drug release and increases the risk of overdose and death.
Due to the presence of talc as one of the excipients in morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, parenteral abuse can be expected to result in local tissue necrosis, infection, pulmonary granulomas, and increased risk of endocarditis and valvular heart injury.
Parenteral drug abuse is commonly associated with transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.
Dependence Both tolerance and physical dependence can develop during chronic opioid therapy.
Tolerance is the need for increasing doses of opioids to maintain a defined effect such as analgesia (in the absence of disease progression or other external factors).
Tolerance may occur to both the desired and undesired effects of drugs, and may develop at different rates for different effects.
Physical dependence results in withdrawal symptoms after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dose reduction of a drug.
Withdrawal also may be precipitated through the administration of drugs with opioid antagonist activity, e.g., naloxone, nalmefene, mixed agonist/antagonist analgesics (pentazocine, butorphanol, nalbuphine), or partial agonists (buprenorphine).
Physical dependence may not occur to a clinically significant degree until after several days to weeks of continued opioid usage.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets should not be abruptly discontinued [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
If morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are abruptly discontinued in a physically-dependent patient, an abstinence syndrome may occur.
Some or all of the following can characterize this syndrome: restlessness, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, yawning, perspiration, chills, myalgia, and mydriasis.
Other signs and symptoms also may develop, including: irritability, anxiety, backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased blood pressure, respiratory rate, or heart rate.
Infants born to mothers physically dependent on opioids will also be physically dependent and may exhibit respiratory difficulties and withdrawal signs [see Use In Specific Populations].
Side Effects & Drug Interactions SIDE EFFECTS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Interactions with Other CNS Depressants [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Severe Hypotension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Seizures [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Withdrawal [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
MORPHABOND may increase the risk of serious adverse reactions such as those observed with other opioid analgesics, including respiratory depression, apnea, respiratory arrest, circulatory depression, hypotension, or shock [see OVERDOSAGE].
Most Frequently Observed Reactions In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions with morphine sulfate extended-release were constipation, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dysphoria, and euphoric mood.
Some of these effects seem to be more prominent in ambulatory patients and in those not experiencing severe pain.
Less Frequently Observed Reactions Cardiovascular disorders: tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations Eye disorders: visual impairment, vision blurred, diplopia, miosis Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia General disorders and administration site conditions: chills, feeling abnormal, edema, edema peripheral, weakness Hepatobiliary disorders: biliary colic Metabolism and nutrition disorders: anorexia Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: muscle rigidity, muscle twitching Nervous system disorders: presyncope, syncope, headache, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movements, convulsion, intracranial pressure increased, taste alteration, paresthesia, nystagmus Psychiatric disorders: agitation, mood altered, anxiety, depression, abnormal dreams, hallucination, disorientation, insomnia Renal and urinary disorders: urinary retention, urinary hesitation, antidiuretic effect Reproductive system and breast disorders: reduced libido and/or potency Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: laryngospasm Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pruritus, urticaria, rash Vascular disorders: flushing, hypotension, hypertension Post-Marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of morphine sulfate extended-release: amenorrhea, asthenia, bronchospasm, confusional state, drug hypersensitivity, fatigue, hyperalgesia, hypertonia, ileus, increased hepatic enzymes, intestinal obstruction, lethargy, malaise, pulmonary edema, thinking disturbances, somnolence, and vertigo.
Anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in morphine sulfate extended-release.
Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention.
DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 1 includes clinically significant drug interactions with MORPHABOND.
Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with MORPHABOND Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of CNS depressants can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death.
Intervention: Reduce the dosage of the MORPHABOND and consider using a lower dosage of the CNS depressant.
Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Examples: Alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, anxiolytics, hypnotics, neuroleptics, other opioids.
Mixed Agonist/Antagonist and Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics Clinical Impact: May reduce the analgesic effect of MORPHABOND 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 MORPHABOND and/or the muscle relaxant as necessary.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of MAOIs can potentiate the effects of morphine and can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, come, and death.
Intervention: Avoid concomitant use in patients receiving MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping treatment with an MAOI.
Cimetidine Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of cimetidine can potentiate morphine effects and increase risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, come, and death.
Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dosage of MORPHABOND and/or cimetidine as necessary.
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 increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus.
Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when MORPHABOND is used concomitantly with anticholinergic drugs.
P-Glycoprotein (PGP*) Inhibitors Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of PGP-inhibitors can increase the exposure to morphine by about two-fold and can increase risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death.
Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dosage of MORPHABOND and/or the PGP-inhibitor as necessary.
Example: quinidine Drug Abuse And Dependence Controlled Substance MORPHABOND contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for abuse similar to other opioids including fentanyl, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone.
MORPHABOND can be abused and is subject to misuse, addiction, and criminal diversion [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The high drug content in extended-release formulations adds to the risk of adverse outcomes from abuse and misuse.
Abuse All patients treated with opioids require careful monitoring for signs of abuse and addiction, since use of opioid analgesic products carries the risk of addiction even under appropriate medical use.
Prescription drug abuse is the intentional non-therapeutic use of a prescription drug, even once, for its rewarding psychological or physiological effects.
Drug addiction is a cluster of behavioral, cognitive, and physiological phenomena that develop after repeated substance use and include: a strong desire to take the drug, difficulties in controlling its use, persisting in its use despite harmful consequences, a higher priority given to drug use than to other activities and obligations, increased tolerance, and sometimes a physical withdrawal.
“Drug seeking” behavior is very common to 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 claims of loss of prescriptions, tampering with prescriptions and reluctance to provide prior medical records or contact information for other health care provider(s).
“Doctor shopping” (visiting multiple prescribers) to obtain additional prescriptions is common among drug abusers and people suffering from untreated addiction.
Preoccupation with achieving adequate pain relief can be appropriate behavior in a patient with poor pain control.
Abuse and addiction are separate and distinct from physical dependence and tolerance.
Health care providers should be aware that addiction may not be accompanied by concurrent tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence in all addicts.
In addition, abuse of opioids can occur in the absence of true addiction.
MORPHABOND, like other opioids, can be diverted for non-medical 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 re-evaluation of therapy, and proper dispensing and storage are appropriate measures that help to reduce abuse of opioid drugs.
Risks Specific to Abuse of MORPHABOND MORPHABOND is for oral use only.
Abuse of MORPHABOND poses a risk of overdose and death.
This risk is increased with concurrent abuse of MORPHABOND with alcohol and other substances.
Taking cut, broken, chewed, crushed, or dissolved MORPHABOND enhances drug release and increases the risk of overdose and death.
Parenteral abuse of MORPHABOND can be expected to result in local tissue necrosis, infection, pulmonary granulomas, and increased risk of endocarditis and valvular heart injury.
Parenteral drug abuse is commonly associated with transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.
Abuse Deterrence Studies MORPHABOND is formulated with inactive ingredients that make the tablet more difficult to adulterate for misuse and abuse while maintaining extended-release characteristics even if the tablet is subjected to physical manipulation, and/or chemical extraction.
To evaluate the ability of the abuse-deterrent technology to reduce the potential for abuse of MORPHABOND, a series of in vitro laboratory manipulation, extraction, and syringeability, studies was conducted.
An in vivo clinical abuse potential study was also conducted.
The results of these studies are summarized below.
Overall, the results indicate that MORPHABOND has properties that are expected to reduce abuse or misuse via injection or insufflation; however, abuse by these routes is still possible.
In Vitro Testing MORPHABOND has been tested in vitro using methods of manipulation that drug abusers commonly use for preparation of extended-release opioids for administration by various routes, including oral consumption, intranasal insufflation, injection, and smoking.
Abusers may manipulate extended-release opioids in order to prepare the tablets for oral, intranasal, or intravenous administration.
The laboratory test data demonstrated that, relative to morphine sulfate extended-release tablet, MORPHABOND has increased resistance to cutting, crushing, or breaking using a variety of tools.
When subjected to a liquid environment the manipulated MORPHABOND formulation forms a viscous material that resists passage through a needle.Clinical Studies A randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, single-dose four-way crossover study in 25 non-dependent recreational opioid users with a history of intranasal drug abuse was performed to determine the relative bioavailability and abuse potential of crushed intranasal MORPHABOND 60 mg tablets compared with crushed intranasal morphine sulfate extended-release tablet 60 mg tablets, and intact orally administered MORPHABOND 60 mg tablets.
The intact oral tablets were included as a reference for evaluating abuse potential after manipulation and administration via an unintended route.
Drug liking was measured on a 100 mm bipolar visual analog scale (VAS) where 50 represents a neutral response of neither liking nor disliking, 0 represents maximum disliking, and 100 represents maximum liking.
Response to whether the subject would take the study drug again was also measured on a bipolar scale of 0 to 100 where 50 represents a neutral response, 0 represents the strongest negative response ('definitely would not take drug again') and 100 represents the strongest positive response ('definitely would take drug again').
Intranasal administration of crushed MORPHABOND was associated with statistically significantly lower drug liking (Emax) scores (P < 0.0001), and significantly lower willingness to take the drug again (Emax) scores (P = 0.034), compared to crushed extended-release morphine (Table 2).
Drug liking and take drug again scores for crushed intranasal MORPHABOND were not significantly different from those of MORPHABOND taken orally intact.
These data are consistent with the similar relative bioavailability after crushed intranasal and intact oral administration of MORPHABOND that support retention of its extended release properties when manipulated compared to morphine sulfate extended-release tablets [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Table 2: Summary of Maximum Drug Liking (Emax) and Take Drug Again (Emax) Following Administration of MORPHABOND, morphine sulfate extended-release tablet, and Placebo in Recreational Opioid Users (n=25) Crushed Intranasal MORPHABOND 60 mg Crushed Intranasal morphine sulfate extended-release tablet 60 mg Placebo Crushed Intranasal morphine sulfate extended-release tablet vs.
Crushed Intranasal MORPHABOND Difference of LS Means (95% CI) Drug Liking (Emax) Mean (SEM) 71.7 (2.87) 85.3 (2.42) 54.3 (1.63) 13.65 (7.80, 19.51) Median (Range) 72 (50-100) 85 (56-100) 51 (50-80) Take Drug Again (Emax) Mean (SEM) 66.4 (3.76) 76.4 (4.17) 49.1 (2.21) 9.96 (0.77, 19.14) Median (Range) 64.0 (38-100) 75.0 (17-100) 50.0 (0-64) Figure 1 demonstrates a comparison of peak drug liking scores for crushed MORPHABOND compared to crushed extended-release morphine in subjects who received both treatments intranasally.
Seventy-six percent of subjects (n = 19) experienced some reduction in Emax of Drug Liking VAS with crushed MORPHABOND compared with crushed extended-release morphine, 48%; (n = 12) experienced at least a 30% reduction in Emax and 32% (n = 8) experienced at least a 50% reduction in Emax of drug liking.
Figure 1: Percent Reduction Profiles for Emax of Drug Liking for MORPHABOND vs.
Morphine Sulfate ER Tablets (n=25), Following Intranasal Administration Summary The in vitro data demonstrate that MORPHABOND has physiochemical properties expected to make abuse via injection difficult.
The data from the clinical study, along with support from in vitro data, also indicate that MORPHABOND has physicochemical properties that are expected to reduce abuse by the intranasal route of administration.
However, abuse by intranasal, intravenous, and oral routes is still possible.
Additional data, including epidemiological data, when available, may provide further information on the impact of the current formulation of MORPHABOND on the abuse liability of the drug.
Accordingly, this section may be updated in the future as appropriate.
Dependence Both tolerance and physical dependence can develop during chronic opioid therapy.
Tolerance is the need for increasing doses of opioids to maintain a defined effect such as analgesia (in the absence of disease progression or other external factors).
Tolerance may occur to both the desired and undesired effects of drugs, and may develop at different rates for different effects.
Physical dependence results in withdrawal symptoms after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dosage reduction of a drug.
Withdrawal also may be precipitated through the administration of drugs with opioid antagonist activity (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene), mixed agonist/antagonist analgesics (pentazocine, butorphanol, nalbuphine), or partial agonists (buprenorphine).
Physical dependence may not occur to a clinically significant degree until after several days to weeks of continued opioid usage.
MORPHABOND should not be abruptly discontinued [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
If MORPHABOND is abruptly discontinued in a physically-dependent patient, a withdrawal syndrome may occur.
Some or all of the following can characterize this syndrome: restlessness, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, yawning, perspiration, chills, myalgia, and mydriasis.
Other signs and symptoms also may develop, including: irritability, anxiety, backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased blood pressure, respiratory rate, or heart rate.
Infants born to mothers physically dependent on opioids will also be physically dependent and may exhibit respiratory difficulties and withdrawal signs [see Use in Specific Populations].
Side Effects & Drug Interactions SIDE EFFECTS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Interactions with Benzodiazepines and Other CNS Depressants [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Adrenal Insufficiency [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Severe Hypotension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Seizures [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Withdrawal [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
ARYMO ER may increase the risk of serious adverse reactions such as those observed with other opioid analgesics, including respiratory depression, apnea, respiratory arrest, circulatory depression, hypotension, or shock [see OVERDOSAGE].
Most Frequently Observed Reactions In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions with morphine sulfate extended-release formulations were constipation, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dysphoria, and euphoric mood.
Some of these effects seem to be more prominent in ambulatory patients and in those not experiencing severe pain.
Less Frequently Observed Reactions Cardiovascular disorders: tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations Eye disorders: visual impairment, vision blurred, diplopia, miosis Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia General disorders and administration site conditions: chills, feeling abnormal, edema, edema peripheral, weakness Hepatobiliary disorders: biliary colic Metabolism and nutrition disorders: anorexia Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: muscle rigidity, muscle twitching Nervous system disorders: presyncope, syncope, headache, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movements, convulsion, intracranial pressure increased, taste alteration, paresthesia, nystagmus Psychiatric disorders: agitation, mood altered, anxiety, depression, abnormal dreams, hallucination, disorientation, insomnia Renal and urinary disorders: urinary retention, urinary hesitation, antidiuretic effect Reproductive system and breast disorders: reduced libido and/or potency Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: laryngospasm Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pruritus, urticaria, rash Vascular disorders: flushing, hypotension, hypertension Post-Marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of morphine sulfate extended-release formulations.
Because these reactions are 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.
These events include: amenorrhea, asthenia, bronchospasm, confusional state, drug hypersensitivity, fatigue, hyperalgesia, hypertonia, ileus, increased hepatic enzymes, intestinal obstruction, lethargy, malaise, pulmonary edema, thinking disturbances, somnolence, and vertigo.
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 ARYMO ER.
Androgen deficiency: Cases of androgen deficiency have occurred with chronic use of opioids [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 1 includes clinically significant drug interactions with ARYMO ER.
Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with ARYMO ER 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.
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.
Follow patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Examples: Benzodiazepines and other sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, 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 ARYMO ER 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), 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 [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Intervention: Do not use ARYMO ER in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment.
Mixed Agonist/Antagonist and Partial Agonist Opioid Analgesics Clinical Impact: May reduce the analgesic effect of ARYMO ER 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 dose of ARYMO ER and/or the muscle relaxant as necessary.
Cimetidine Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of cimetidine can potentiate morphine effects and increase risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death.
Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dose of ARYMO ER and/or cimetidine as necessary.
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 dose of the diuretic as needed.
Anticholinergic Drugs Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of anticholinergic drugs may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus.
Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when ARYMO ER is used concurrently with anticholinergic drugs.
P-Glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors can increase the exposure to morphine by about two-fold and can increase risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death.
Intervention: Monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected and decrease the dose of ARYMO ER and/or the P-gp inhibitor as necessary.
Example: Quinidine Drug Abuse And Dependence Controlled Substance ARYMO ER contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Abuse ARYMO ER contains morphine, a substance with a high potential for abuse similar to other opioids including fentanyl, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone, oxymorphone, and tapentadol.
ARYMO ER can be abused and is subject to misuse, addiction, and criminal diversion [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The high drug content in extended-release formulations adds to the risk of adverse outcomes from misuse and abuse.
All patients treated with opioids require careful monitoring for signs of abuse and addiction because use of opioid analgesic products carries the risk of addiction even under appropriate medical use.
Prescription drug abuse is the intentional non-therapeutic use of a prescription drug, even once, for its rewarding psychological or physiological effects.
Drug addiction is a cluster of behavioral, cognitive, and physiological phenomena that develop after repeated substance use and includes: a strong desire to take the drug, difficulties in controlling its use, persisting in its use despite harmful consequences, a higher priority given to drug use than to other activities and obligations, increased tolerance, and sometimes a physical withdrawal.
“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 healthcare provider(s).
“Doctor shopping” (visiting multiple prescribers to obtain additional prescriptions) is common among drug abusers and people suffering from untreated addiction.
Preoccupation with achieving adequate pain relief can be appropriate behavior in a patient with poor pain control.
Abuse and addiction are separate and distinct from physical dependence and tolerance.
Healthcare providers should be aware that addiction may not be accompanied by concurrent tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence in all addicts.
In addition, abuse of opioids can occur in the absence of true addiction.
ARYMO ER, like other opioids, can be diverted for non-medical 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 re-evaluation of therapy, and proper dispensing and storage are appropriate measures that help to reduce abuse of opioid drugs.
Risks Specific to Abuse of ARYMO ER ARYMO ER is for oral use only.
Abuse of ARYMO ER poses a risk of overdose and death.
This risk is increased with concurrent abuse of ARYMO ER with alcohol and other central nervous system depressant.
Attempting to cut, break, chew, crush, or dissolve ARYMO ER tablets may compromise some of the extended-release properties, resulting in delivery of morphine that could lead to overdose and death.
Parenteral abuse of ARYMO ER can be expected to result in local tissue necrosis, infection, pulmonary granulomas, and increased risk of endocarditis and valvular heart injury.
Parenteral drug abuse is commonly associated with transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.
Abuse Deterrence Studies ARYMO ER is formulated with inactive ingredients that make the tablet more difficult to manipulate for misuse and abuse.
To evaluate the ability of ARYMO ER to reduce the potential for misuse and abuse, a series of abuse-deterrent in vitro laboratory physical manipulation, chemical extraction, and syringeability studies was conducted.
An oral pharmacokinetic study and an oral clinical abuse potential study were also conducted.
In Vitro Testing In vitro physical and chemical manipulation studies were performed to evaluate the ability of different methods to defeat the extended-release properties.
The results of this testing demonstrated that ARYMO ER tablets, in comparison to morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, have increased resistance to cutting, crushing, grinding or breaking using a variety of tools.
When subjected to a liquid environment, the manipulated ARYMO ER tablets form a viscous hydrogel (i.e., a gelatinous mass) that resists passage through a hypodermic needle.
Oral Pharmacokinetic Study The pharmacokinetic profile of manipulated ARYMO ER was characterized following oral administration.
The study was conducted in a randomized cross-over design.
The pharmacokinetic profile of manipulated and intact ARYMO ER compared to crushed morphine sulfate extended-release was evaluated in 38 subjects after oral administration.
The results are summarized in Table 2 and demonstrate that oral ingestion of manipulated ARYMO ER resulted in a higher Cmax, but similar AUC, when compared to intact ARYMO ER.
In addition, manipulated ARYMO ER had a lower Cmax and longer Tmax than crushed morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Table 2: Results from Oral Pharmacokinetic Study PK Parameter ARYMO ER Crushed Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release (n = 39) Manipulated (n = 38) Intact (n = 38) Cmax (ng/mL) Mean (SD) 28.7 (9.1) 17.8 (6.6) 42.3 (14.3) Median (Range) 29.2 (12.5, 47.8) 16.7 (8.5, 32.3) 42.2 (14.2, 79.0) Tmax (h) Median (Range) 2.1 (0.9, 4.2) 4.1 (1.6, 6.1) 0.9 (0.6, 4.1) AUC0–∞ (h*ng/mL) Mean (SD) 159.3 (36.8) 168.0 (53.6) 182.1 (49.9) Median (Range) 157.1 (94.5, 215.3) 159.4 (80.9, 274.8) 185.5 (61.8, 284.1) Cmax = maximum observed plasma concentration; Tmax = time to achieve the maximum observed plasma concentration; AUC0-∞ = area under the curve, zero to infinity Oral Clinical Abuse Potential Study An oral abuse potential study was conducted in 39 subjects who were non-dependent recreational opioid users; 38 subjects completed the study.
Treatment arms included manipulated ARYMO ER 60 mg tablets (taken with juice), intact ARYMO ER 60 mg tablets (taken with juice), crushed 60 mg morphine sulfate extended-release tablets (mixed in juice), and placebo.
The study demonstrated that the oral administration of manipulated ARYMO ER resulted in a statistically lower mean drug liking score than the oral administration of crushed morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
However, the difference between manipulated ARYMO ER and crushed morphine sulfate extended-release tablets for Take Drug Again was not statistically significant, indicating that the difference in drug liking scores was not clinically meaningful.
These results are summarized in Table 3.
Table 3: Summary of Maximum Scores (Emax) for Drug Liking and Take Drug Again VAS1 Following Oral Administration of Manipulated and Intact ARYMO ER and Crushed Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release in Non-Dependent Recreational Opioid Users Parameter ARYMO ER Crushed Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release (n = 38) Placebo (n = 38) Manipulated (n = 38) Intact (n = 38) Maximum Drug Liking (Emax) Mean (SD) 68.3 (12.3) 63.2 (10.1) 73.3 (9.8) 53.3 (7.8) Median (Q1, Q3) 67.0 (61.0, 75.0) 62.0 (56.0, 68.0) 74.0 (68.0, 79.0) 50.0 (50.0, 52.0) Take Drug Again (Emax) Mean (SD) 62.9 (19.6) 54.8 (20.8) 70.1 (17.5) 51.0 (10.2) Median (Q1, Q3) 61.5 (51.0, 71.0) 56.0 (50.0, 65.0) 68.0 (56.0, 80.0) 50.0 (50.0, 50.0) 1 100 point bipolar VAS (0=maximum negative response, 50=neutral response, 100=maximum positive response) Summary The in vitro data demonstrate that ARYMO ER has physical and chemical properties expected to make abuse by injection difficult.
Although the results of the oral human abuse potential study showed a difference in the Drug Liking endpoint, there was no statistically significant reduction in the response to Take Drug Again.
Therefore, it cannot be concluded that ARYMO ER has physical and chemical properties that are expected to reduce abuse via the oral route.
Abuse of ARYMO ER by injection, as well as by the oral and nasal routes, is still possible.
Additional data, including epidemiological data, when available, may provide further information on the impact of the current formulation of ARYMO ER on the abuse liability of the drug.
Accordingly, this section may be updated in the future as appropriate.
Dependence Both tolerance and physical dependence can develop during chronic opioid therapy.
Tolerance is the need for increasing doses of opioids to maintain a defined effect such as analgesia (in the absence of disease progression or other external factors).
Tolerance may occur to both the desired and undesired effects of drugs, and may develop at different rates for different effects.
Physical dependence results in withdrawal symptoms after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dose reduction of a drug.
Withdrawal also may be precipitated through the administration of drugs with opioid antagonist activity (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene), mixed agonist/antagonist analgesics (e.g., pentazocine, butorphanol, nalbuphine), or partial agonists (e.g., buprenorphine).
Physical dependence may not occur to a clinically significant degree until after several days to weeks of continued opioid usage.
ARYMO ER should not be abruptly discontinued [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
If ARYMO ER is abruptly discontinued in a physically-dependent patient, a withdrawal syndrome may occur.
Some or all of the following can characterize this syndrome: restlessness, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, yawning, perspiration, chills, myalgia, and mydriasis.
Other signs and symptoms also may develop, including irritability, anxiety, backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased blood pressure, respiratory rate, or heart rate.
Infants born to mothers physically dependent on opioids will also be physically dependent and may exhibit respiratory difficulties and withdrawal signs [see Use in Specific Populations].
Warnings & Precautions WARNINGS Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section PRECAUTIONS Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets contain morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
As an opioid, morphine sulfate extended-release tablets expose its users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
As modified-release products such as morphine sulfate extended-release tablets deliver the opioid over an extended period of time, there is a greater risk for overdose and death due to the larger amount of morphine present [see Drug Abuse And Dependence].
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed morphine sulfate extended-release tablets and in those who obtain the drug illicitly.
Addiction can occur at recommended doses and if the drug is misused or abused.
Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, and monitor all patients receiving opioids for development of these behaviors or 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 modified-release opioid formulations such as morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks of proper use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
Abuse or misuse of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets by crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product will result in the uncontrolled delivery of morphine and can result in overdose and death [see OVERDOSE].
Opioid agonists such as morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal diversion.
Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on the proper disposal of unused drug [see Patient Counseling Information].
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.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of modifiedrelease opioids, even when used as recommended.
Respiratory depression from opioid use, 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 antagonists, depending on the patient’s clinical status [see OVERDOSE].
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 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 extended-release tablets, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dose increase.
Closely monitor patients for respiratory depression when initiating therapy with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets and following dose increases.
To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets are essential [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Overestimating the morphine sulfate extended-release tablets dose when converting patients from another opioid product can result in a fatal overdose with the first dose.
Accidental ingestion of even one dose of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, especially by children, can result in respiratory depression and death due to an overdose of morphine.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Prolonged use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets during pregnancy can result in withdrawal signs in the neonate.
Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts.
If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
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 opioid 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.
Interactions With Central Nervous System Depressants Hypotension, and profound sedation, coma or respiratory depression may result if morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are used concomitantly with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., sedatives, anxiolytics, hypnotics, neuroleptics, other opioids).
When considering the use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in a patient taking a CNS depressant, assess the duration of use of the CNS depressant and the patient’s response, including the degree of tolerance that has developed to CNS depression.
Additionally, evaluate the patient’s use of alcohol and/or illicit drugs that cause CNS depression.
If the decision to begin morphine sulfate extended-release tablets is made, start with the lowest possible dose, 15 mg every 12 hours, monitor patients for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, and consider using a lower dose of the concomitant CNS depressant [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Use In Elderly, Cachectic, And Debilitated Patients Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients as they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients.
Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating morphine sulfate extended-release tablets and when morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Use In Patients With Chronic Pulmonary Disease Monitor patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and patients having a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or pre-existing respiratory depression for respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy and titrating with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, as in these patients, even usual therapeutic doses of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may decrease respiratory drive to the point of apnea [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Consider the use of alternative non-opioid analgesics in these patients if possible.
Hypotensive Effects Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory patients.
There is an increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs (e.g., phenothiazines or general anesthetics) [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Monitor these patients for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dose of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
In patients with circulatory shock, morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure.
Avoid the use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in patients with circulatory shock.
Use In Patients With Head Injury Or Increased Intracranial Pressure Monitor patients taking morphine sulfate extended-release tablets who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors) for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure.
Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury.
Avoid the use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
Use In Patients With Gastrointestinal Conditions Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with paralytic ileus.
Avoid the use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets in patients with other GI obstruction.
The morphine in morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi.
Monitor patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis, for worsening symptoms.
Opioids may cause increases in the serum amylase.
Use In Patients With Convulsive Or Seizure Disorders The morphine in morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may aggravate convulsions in patients with convulsive disorders, and may induce or aggravate seizures in some clinical settings.
Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets therapy.
Avoidance Of Withdrawal Avoid the use of mixed agonist/antagonist (i.e., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) or partial agonist (buprenorphine) analgesics in patients who have received or are receiving a course of therapy with a full opioid agonist analgesic, morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
In these patients, mixed agonists/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect and/or may precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
When discontinuing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, gradually taper the dose [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Do not abruptly discontinue morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Driving And Operating Machinery Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may impair the mental or physical abilities needed to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating machinery.
Warn patients not to drive or operate dangerous machinery unless they are tolerant to the effects of morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets and know how they will react to the medication.
Patient Counseling Information Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse Inform patients that the use of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients not to share morphine sulfate extended-release tablets with others and to take steps to protect morphine sulfate extended-release tablets 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 extended-release tablets or when the dose is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended doses [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients how to recognize respiratory depression and to seek medical attention if breathing difficulties develop.
Accidental Ingestion Inform patients that accidental ingestion, especially in children, may result in respiratory depression or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to take steps to store morphine sulfate extended-release tablets securely and to dispose of unused morphine sulfate extended-release tablets by flushing the tablets down the toilet.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Inform female patients of reproductive potential that prolonged use of morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be lifethreatening if not recognized and treated [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Interactions With Alcohol And Other CNS Depressants Inform patients that potentially serious additive effects may occur if morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are used with alcohol or other CNS depressants, and not to use such drugs unless supervised by a health care provider.
Important Administration Instructions Instruct patients how to properly take morphine sulfate extended-release tablets, including the following: Swallowing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets whole Not crushing, chewing, or dissolving the tablets Using morphine sulfate extended-release tablets exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of lifethreatening adverse reactions (e.g., respiratory depression) Not discontinuing morphine sulfate extended-release tablets without first discussing the need for a tapering regimen with the prescriber Hypotension Inform patients that morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope.
Instruct patients how to recognize symptoms of low blood pressure and how to reduce the risk of serious consequences should hypotension occur (e.g., sit or lie down, carefully rise from a sitting or lying position).
Driving Or Operating Heavy Machinery Inform patients that morphine sulfate extended-release tablets may impair the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating heavy machinery.
Advise patients not to perform such tasks until they know how they will react to the medication.
Constipation Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention.
Anaphylaxis Inform patients that anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in morphine sulfate extended-release tablets.
Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention.
Pregnancy Advise female patients that morphine sulfate extended-release tablets can cause fetal harm and to inform the prescriber if they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Healthcare professionals can telephone Rhodes Pharmaceuticals L.P.
(1-888-827-0616) for information on this product.
Disposal Of Unused Morphine Sulfate Extended-Release Tablets Advise patients to flush the unused tablets down the toilet when morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are no longer needed.
Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility Carcinogenesis 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 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 this 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, higher incidence of pseudopregnancies, and reduction in implantation sites were seen.
Studies from the literature have also reported changes in hormonal levels (i.e., testosterone, luteinizing hormone, serum corticosterone) following treatment with morphine.
These changes may be associated with the reported effects on fertility in the rat.
Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Clinical Considerations Fetal/neonatal adverse reactions Prolonged use of opioid analgesics during pregnancy for medical or nonmedical purposes can result in physical dependence in the neonate and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome shortly after birth.
Observe newborns for symptoms of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, such as poor feeding, diarrhea, irritability, tremor, rigidity, and seizures, and manage accordingly [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category C There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
In humans, the frequency of congenital anomalies has been reported to be no greater than expected among the children of 70 women who were treated with morphine during the first four months of pregnancy or in 448 women treated with morphine anytime during pregnancy.
Furthermore, no malformations were observed in the infant of a woman who attempted suicide by taking an overdose of morphine and other medication during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Several literature reports indicate that morphine administered subcutaneously during the early gestational period in mice and hamsters produced neurological, soft tissue and skeletal abnormalities.
With one exception, the effects that have been reported were following doses that were maternally toxic and the abnormalities noted were characteristic of those observed when maternal toxicity is present.
In one study, following subcutaneous infusion of doses greater than or equal to 0.15 mg/kg to mice, exencephaly, hydronephrosis, intestinal hemorrhage, split supraoccipital, malformed sternebrae, and malformed xiphoid were noted in the absence of maternal toxicity.
In the hamster, morphine sulfate given subcutaneously on gestation day 8 produced exencephaly and cranioschisis.
In rats treated with subcutaneous infusions of morphine during the period of organogenesis, no teratogenicity was observed.
No maternal toxicity was observed in this study; however, increased mortality and growth retardation were seen in the offspring.
In two studies performed in the rabbit, no evidence of teratogenicity was reported at subcutaneous doses up to 100 mg/kg.
Non-Teratogenic Effects Infants born to mothers who have taken opioids chronically may exhibit neonatal withdrawal syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS], reversible reduction in brain volume, small size, decreased ventilatory response to CO2 and increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
Morphine sulfate should be used by a pregnant woman only if the need for opioid analgesia clearly outweighs the potential risks to the fetus.
Controlled studies of chronic in utero morphine exposure in pregnant women have not been conducted.
Published literature has reported that exposure to morphine during pregnancy in animals is associated with reduction in growth and a host of behavioral abnormalities in the offspring.
Morphine treatment during gestational periods of organogenesis in rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits resulted in the following treatment-related embryotoxicity and neonatal toxicity in one or more studies: decreased litter size, embryo-fetal viability, fetal and neonatal body weights, absolute brain and cerebellar weights, delayed motor and sexual maturation, and increased neonatal mortality, cyanosis and hypothermia.
Decreased fertility in female offspring, and decreased plasma and testicular levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, decreased testes weights, seminiferous tubule shrinkage, germinal cell aplasia, and decreased spermatogenesis in male offspring were also observed.
Decreased litter size and viability were observed in the offspring of male rats administered morphine (25 mg/kg, IP) for 1 day prior to mating.
Behavioral abnormalities resulting from chronic morphine exposure of fetal animals included altered reflex and motor skill development, mild withdrawal, and altered responsiveness to morphine persisting into adulthood.
Labor And Delivery Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression in neonates.
Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets are not for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, when shorter acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate.
Opioid analgesics 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.
Nursing Mothers Morphine is excreted in breast milk, with a milk to plasma morphine AUC ratio of approximately 2.5:1.
The amount of morphine received by the infant varies depending on the maternal plasma concentration, the amount of milk ingested by the infant, and the extent of first pass metabolism.
Withdrawal signs can occur in breast-feeding infants when maternal administration of morphine is stopped.
Because of the potential for adverse reactions in nursing infants from morphine sulfate extendedrelease tablets, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 18 have not been established.
Geriatric Use The pharmacokinetics of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets have not been studied in elderly patients.
Clinical studies of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, 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.
Warnings & Precautions WARNINGS Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
PRECAUTIONS Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse MORPHABOND contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
As an opioid, MORPHABOND exposes its users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
As extended-release products such as MORPHABOND deliver the opioid over an extended period of time, there is a greater risk for overdose and death due to the larger amount of morphine present [see Drug Abuse and Dependence].
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed MORPHABOND and in those who obtain the drug illicitly.
Addiction can occur at recommended doses and if the drug is misused or abused.
Assess each patient's risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing MORPHABOND, and monitor all patients receiving MORPHABOND for development of these behaviors or 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 extended-release opioid formulations such as MORPHABOND, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks of proper use of MORPHABOND along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed MORPHABOND.
Addiction can occur at recommended dosages and if the drug is misused or abused.
Abuse or misuse of MORPHABOND by crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product will result in the uncontrolled delivery of morphine and can result in overdose and death [see OVERDOSAGE].
Opioid agonists such as MORPHABOND are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal diversion.
Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing MORPHABOND.
Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on the proper storage and disposal of unused drug [see PATIENT INFORMATION].
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.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of modified-release opioids, even when used as recommended.
Respiratory depression from opioid use, 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 antagonists, depending on the patient's clinical status [see OVERDOSAGE].
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 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 MORPHABOND, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dosage increase.
Closely monitor patients for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy with and following dosage increases with MORPHABOND.
To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of MORPHABOND are essential [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Overestimating the MORPHABOND dosage when converting patients from another opioid product can result in a fatal overdose with the first dose.
Accidental ingestion of even one dose of MORPHABOND, especially by children, can result in respiratory depression and death due to an overdose of morphine.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Prolonged use of MORPHABOND during pregnancy can result in withdrawal signs in the neonate.
Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts.
If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
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 opioid 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 [see Use in Specific Populations].
Risks Due To Interactions With Central Nervous System Depressants Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if MORPHABOND is used concomitantly with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., sedatives, tranquilizers, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, anxiolytics, hypnotics, neuroleptics, other opioids).
When considering the use of MORPHABOND in a patient taking a CNS depressant, assess the duration of use of the CNS depressant and the patient's response, including the degree of tolerance that has developed to CNS depression.
Additionally, evaluate the patient's use of alcohol and/or illicit drugs that cause CNS depression.
If the decision to begin MORPHABOND is made, start with a lower dosage of MORPHABOND, monitor patients for signs of sedation, respiratory depression, and hypotension, and consider using a lower dosage of the concomitant CNS depressant [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Risk Of Life Threatening Respiratory Depression In Elderly, Cachectic, And Debilitated Patients Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients as they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients.
Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating MORPHABOND and when MORPHABOND is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression above].
Risk Of Apnea In Patients With Chronic Pulmonary Disease The use of MORPHABOND in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment is contraindicated.
MORPHABOND-treated patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and those with a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or pre-existing respiratory depression are at increased risk of decreased respiratory drive including apnea even at recommended dosages of MORPHABOND [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Therefore, closely monitor these patients especially when initiating and titrating MORPHABOND.
Alternatively, consider the use of alternative non-opioid analgesics in these patients.
Severe Hypotension MORPHABOND may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory patients.
There is an increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs (e.g., phenothiazines or general anesthetics) [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Monitor these patients for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dosage of MORPHABOND.
In patients with circulatory shock, MORPHABOND may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure.
Avoid the use of MORPHABOND in patients with circulatory shock.
Risks Of Use In Patients With Increased Intracranial Pressure, Brain Tumors, Head Injury, Or Impaired Consciousness In patients who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors), MORPHABOND may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure.
Monitor such patients for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with MORPHABOND.
Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury.
Avoid the use of MORPHABOND in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
Risks Of Use In Patients With Gastrointestinal Conditions MORPHABOND is contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus.
The morphine in MORPHABOND may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi.
Opioids may cause increases in the serum amylase.
Monitor patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis, for worsening symptoms.
Increased Risk Of Seizures In Patients With Seizure Disorders The morphine in MORPHABOND may increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders, and may increase the risk of seizures occurring in other clinical settings associated with seizures.
Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during MORPHABOND therapy.
Withdrawal Avoid the use of mixed agonist/antagonist (e.g., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) or partial agonist (e.g., buprenorphine) analgesics in patients who have received or are receiving a course of therapy with a full opioid agonist analgesic, including MORPHABOND.
In these patients, mixed agonists/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect and/or may precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
When discontinuing MORPHABOND, gradually taper the dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Do not abruptly discontinue MORPHABOND [see Drug Abuse and Dependence].
Risks Of Driving And Operating Machinery MORPHABOND may impair the mental or physical abilities needed to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating machinery.
Warn patients not to drive or operate dangerous machinery unless they are tolerant to the effects of MORPHABOND and know how they will react to the medication.
Patient Counseling Information Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse Inform patients that the use of MORPHABOND, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients not to share MORPHABOND with others and to take steps to protect MORPHABOND 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 MORPHABOND or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended dosages [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients how to recognize respiratory depression and to seek medical attention if breathing difficulties develop.
Accidental Ingestion Inform patients that accidental ingestion, especially by children, may result in respiratory depression or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to take steps to store MORPHABOND securely and to dispose of unused MORPHABOND by flushing the tablets down the toilet.
Interactions with Alcohol and other CNS Depressants Inform patients that potentially serious additive effects may occur MORPHABOND is used with alcohol or other CNS depressants, and not to use such drugs unless supervised by a health care provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Important Administration Instructions [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Instruct patients how to properly take MORPHABOND, including the following: Swallowing MORPHABOND tablets whole Not crushing, chewing, or dissolving the tablets Using MORPHABOND exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of life-threatening adverse reactions (e.g., respiratory depression) Not discontinuing MORPHABOND without first discussing the need for a tapering regimen with the prescriber Hypotension Inform patients that MORPHABOND may cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope.
Instruct patients how to recognize symptoms of low blood pressure and how to reduce the risk of serious consequences should hypotension occur (e.g., sit or lie down, carefully rise from a sitting or lying position) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.] Driving or Operating Heavy Machinery Inform patients that MORPHABOND may impair the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating heavy machinery.
Advise patients not to perform such tasks until they know how they will react to the medication [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Constipation Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention.
Anaphylaxis Inform patients that anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in MORPHABOND.
Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention.
Pregnancy Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Inform patients that prolonged use of MORPHABOND during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Use in Specific Populations].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Inform female patients of reproductive potential that MORPHABOND can (or may) cause fetal harm and to inform the prescriber of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations].
Disposal of Unused MORPHABOND Advise patients to flush the unused tablets down the toilet when MORPHABOND is no longer needed.
Healthcare professionals can telephone Inspirion Delivery Technologies (1-845-589-0277) for information on this product.
Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility Carcinogenesis 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 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 this 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, higher incidence of pseudopregnancies, and reduction in implantation sites were seen.
Studies from the literature have also reported changes in hormonal levels (i.e., testosterone, luteinizing hormone, serum corticosterone) following treatment with morphine.
These changes may be associated with the reported effects on fertility in the rat.
Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Clinical Considerations Fetal/neonatal Adverse Reactions Prolonged use of opioid analgesics during pregnancy for medical or nonmedical purposes can result in physical dependence in the neonate and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome shortly after birth.
Observe newborns for symptoms of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, including poor feeding, diarrhea, irritability, tremor, rigidity, and seizures, and manage accordingly [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Teratogenic Effects -Pregnancy Category C There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
MORPHABOND should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
In humans, the frequency of congenital anomalies has been reported to be no greater than expected among the children of 70 women who were treated with morphine during the first four months of pregnancy or in 448 women treated with morphine anytime during pregnancy.
Furthermore, no malformations were observed in the infant of a woman who attempted suicide by taking an overdose of morphine and other medication during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Several literature reports indicate that morphine administered subcutaneously during the early gestational period in mice and hamsters produced neurological, soft tissue and skeletal abnormalities.
With one exception, the effects that have been reported were following doses that were maternally toxic and the abnormalities noted were characteristic of those observed when maternal toxicity is present.
In one study, following subcutaneous infusion of doses greater than or equal to 0.15 mg/kg to mice, exencephaly, hydronephrosis, intestinal hemorrhage, split supraoccipital, malformed sternebrae, and malformed xiphoid were noted in the absence of maternal toxicity.
In the hamster, morphine sulfate given subcutaneously on gestation day 8 produced exencephaly and cranioschisis.
In rats treated with subcutaneous infusions of morphine during the period of organogenesis, no teratogenicity was observed.
No maternal toxicity was observed in this study; however, increased mortality and growth retardation were seen in the offspring.
In two studies performed in the rabbit, no evidence of teratogenicity was reported at subcutaneous doses up to 100 mg/kg.
Non-Teratogenic Effects Infants born to mothers who have taken opioids chronically may exhibit neonatal withdrawal syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS], reversible reduction in brain volume, small size, decreased ventilatory response to CO2 and increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
Morphine sulfate should be used by a pregnant woman only if the need for opioid analgesia clearly outweighs the potential risks to the fetus.
Controlled studies of chronic in utero morphine exposure in pregnant women have not been conducted.
Published literature has reported that exposure to morphine during pregnancy in animals is associated with reduction in growth and a host of behavioral abnormalities in the offspring.
Morphine treatment during gestational periods of organogenesis in rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits resulted in the following treatment-related embryotoxicity and neonatal toxicity in one or more studies: decreased litter size, embryo-fetal viability, fetal and neonatal body weights, absolute brain and cerebellar weights, delayed motor and sexual maturation, and increased neonatal mortality, cyanosis and hypothermia.
Decreased fertility in female offspring, and decreased plasma and testicular levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, decreased testes weights, seminiferous tubule shrinkage, germinal cell aplasia, and decreased spermatogenesis in male offspring were also observed.
Decreased litter size and viability were observed in the offspring of male rats administered morphine (25 mg/kg, IP) for 1 day prior to mating.
Behavioral abnormalities resulting from chronic morphine exposure of fetal animals included altered reflex and motor skill development, mild withdrawal, and altered responsiveness to morphine persisting into adulthood.
Labor And Delivery Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic effects in neonates.
MORPHABOND is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, when shorter acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate.
Opioid analgesics, including MORPHABOND, 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.
An opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, must be available for reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression in the neonate.
Nursing Mothers Morphine is excreted in breast milk, with a milk to plasma morphine AUC ratio of approximately 2.5:1.
The amount of morphine received by the infant varies depending on the maternal plasma concentration, the amount of milk ingested by the infant, and the extent of first pass metabolism.
Withdrawal signs can occur in breast-feeding infants when maternal administration of morphine is stopped.
Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, including excess sedation and respiratory depression in a breastfed infant, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with MORPHABOND.
Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 18 have not been established.
Geriatric Use The pharmacokinetics of MORPHABOND have not been studied in elderly patients.
Clinical studies of morphine sulfate extended-release did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
Elderly patients (aged 65 years or older) may have increased sensitivity to morphine.
In general, dosage selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, 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 MORPHABOND slowly in geriatric patients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Warnings & Precautions WARNINGS Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
PRECAUTIONS Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse ARYMO ER contains morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
As an opioid, ARYMO ER exposes its users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
As extended-release products such as ARYMO ER deliver the opioid over an extended period of time, there is a greater risk for overdose and death due to the larger amount of morphine present [see Drug Abuse and Dependence].
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed ARYMO ER and in those who obtain the drug illicitly.
Addiction can occur at recommended doses and if the drug is misused or abused.
Assess each patient's risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing ARYMO ER, and monitor all patients receiving ARYMO ER for development of these behaviors or 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 ARYMO ER, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks of proper use of ARYMO ER along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
Attempts at misuse or abuse of ARYMO ER by crushing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product may compromise some of the extended-release properties resulting in delivery of morphine that could lead to overdose and death [see OVERDOSAGE].
Opioids are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal diversion.
Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing ARYMO ER.
Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on the proper storage and disposal of unused drug [see PATIENT INFORMATION].
Contact the local state professional licensing board or state controlled substances authority for information on how to prevent and detect abuse or diversion of this product.
Life-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 antagonists, depending on the patient's clinical status [see OVERDOSAGE].
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 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 ARYMO ER, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dosage increase.
Monitor patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy with and following dosage increases with ARYMO ER.
To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of ARYMO ER are essential [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Overestimating the ARYMO ER dose when converting patients from another opioid product can result in a fatal overdose with the first dose.
Accidental ingestion of even one dose of ARYMO ER, especially by children, can result in respiratory depression and death due to an overdose of morphine.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Prolonged use of ARYMO ER during pregnancy can result in withdrawal in the neonate.
Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts.
Observe newborns for signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly.
Advise pregnant women using opioids for a prolonged period of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available [see Use in Specific Populations, PATIENT INFORMATION].
Risks From Concomitant Use With Benzodiazepines Or Other CNS Depressants Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result from the concomitant use of ARYMO ER with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (e.g., non-benzodiazepine sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, other opioids, alcohol).
Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioid analgesics alone.
Because of similar pharmacological properties, it is reasonable to expect similar risk with the concomitant use of other CNS depressant drugs with opioid analgesics [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
If the decision is made to prescribe a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant concomitantly with an opioid analgesic, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use.
In patients already receiving an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid, and titrate based on clinical response.
If an opioid analgesic is initiated in a patient already taking a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant, prescribe a lower initial dose of the opioid analgesic, and titrate based on clinical response.
Follow patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when ARYMO ER is used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (including alcohol and illicit drugs).
Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use of the benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant have been determined.
Screen patients for risk of substance use disorders, including opioid abuse and misuse, and warn them of the risk for overdose and death associated with the use of additional CNS depressants including alcohol and illicit drugs [see DRUG INTERACTIONS, PATIENT INFORMATION].
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression In Patients With Chronic Pulmonary Disease Or In Elderly, Cachectic, Or Debilitated Patients The use of ARYMO ER in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment is contraindicated.
Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease: ARYMO ER-treated patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and those with a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or pre-existing respiratory depression are at increased risk of decreased respiratory drive including apnea, even at recommended dosages of ARYMO ER [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients: Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients because they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating ARYMO ER and when ARYMO ER is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression and Risks from Concomitant Use with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants].
Alternatively, consider the use of non-opioid analgesics in these patients.
Interaction With Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may potentiate the effects of morphine, including respiratory depression, coma, and confusion.
ARYMO ER should not be used in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping such treatment.
Adrenal Insufficiency Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use.
Presentation of adrenal insufficiency may include non-specific symptoms and signs including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure.
If adrenal insufficiency is suspected, confirm the diagnosis with diagnostic testing as soon as possible.
If adrenal insufficiency is diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement doses of corticosteroids.
Wean the patient off of the opioid to allow adrenal function to recover and continue corticosteroid treatment until adrenal function recovers.
Other opioids may be tried as some cases reported use of a different opioid without recurrence of adrenal insufficiency.
The information available does not identify any particular opioids as being more likely to be associated with adrenal insufficiency.
Severe Hypotension ARYMO ER may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory patients.
There is an increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs (e.g., phenothiazines or general anesthetics) [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Monitor these patients for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dose of ARYMO ER.
In patients with circulatory shock, ARYMO ER may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure.
Avoid the use ARYMO ER in patients with circulatory shock.
Risks Of Use In Patients With Increased Intracranial Pressure, Brain Tumors, Head Injury, Or Impaired Consciousness In patients who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors), ARYMO ER may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure.
Monitor such patients for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with ARYMO ER.
Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury.
Avoid the use of ARYMO ER in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
Difficulty In Swallowing And Risk For Obstruction In Patients At Risk For A Small Gastrointestinal Lumen Moistened ARYMO ER tablets may become sticky leading to difficulty in swallowing the tablets.
Patients could experience choking, gagging, regurgitation and tablets stuck in the throat.
Instruct patients not to pre-soak, lick, or otherwise wet ARYMO ER tablets prior to placing in the mouth, and to take one tablet at a time with enough water to ensure complete swallowing immediately after placing in the mouth.
Tablet stickiness and swelling may also predispose patients to intestinal obstruction and exacerbation of diverticulitis.
Patients with underlying GI disorders such as esophageal cancer or colon cancer with a small gastrointestinal lumen are at greater risk of developing these complications.
Consider use of an alternative analgesic in patients who have difficulty swallowing and patients at risk for underlying GI disorders resulting in a small gastrointestinal lumen.
Risks Of Use In Patients With Gastrointestinal Conditions ARYMO ER is contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus.
The morphine in ARYMO ER may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi.
Opioids may cause increases in the serum amylase.
Monitor patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis, for worsening symptoms.
Increased Risk Of Seizures In Patients With Seizure Disorders The morphine in ARYMO ER may increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders, and may increase the risk of seizures occurring in other clinical settings associated with seizures.
Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during ARYMO ER therapy.
Withdrawal Avoid the use of mixed agonist/antagonist (i.e., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) or partial agonist (e.g., buprenorphine) analgesics in patients who have received or are receiving a course of therapy with a full opioid agonist analgesic, including ARYMO ER.
In these patients, mixed agonists/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect and/or may precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
When discontinuing ARYMO ER, gradually taper the dose [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Do not abruptly discontinue ARYMO ER [see Drug Abuse and Dependence].
Risks Of Driving And Operating Machinery ARYMO ER may impair the mental or physical abilities needed to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating machinery.
Warn patients not to drive or operate dangerous machinery unless they are tolerant to the effects of ARYMO ER and know how they will react to the medication [see PATIENT INFORMATION].
Patient Counseling Information Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse Inform patients that the use of ARYMO ER, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients not to share ARYMO ER with others and to take steps to protect ARYMO ER 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 ARYMO ER or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended doses [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients how to recognize respiratory depression and to seek medical attention if breathing difficulties develop.
Accidental Ingestion Inform patients that accidental ingestion, especially by children, may result in respiratory depression or death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to take steps to store ARYMO ER securely and to dispose of unused ARYMO ER by flushing the tablets down the toilet.
Interactions With Benzodiazepines And Other CNS Depressants Inform patients and caregivers that potentially fatal additive effects may occur if ARYMO ER is used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, and not to use these concomitantly unless supervised by a healthcare provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, DRUG INTERACTIONS].
MAOI Interaction Inform patients to avoid taking ARYMO ER while using any drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase.
Patients should not start MAOIs while taking ARYMO ER [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Serotonin Syndrome Inform patients that opioids could cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition 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.
Instruct patients to inform their healthcare providers if they are taking, or plan to take serotonergic medications.
[see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Adrenal Insufficiency Inform patients that opioids could cause adrenal insufficiency, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Adrenal insufficiency may present with non-specific symptoms and signs such as nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure.
Advise patients to seek medical attention if they experience a constellation of these symptoms [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Important Administration Instructions [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Instruct patients how to properly take ARYMO ER, including the following: Use ARYMO ER exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of life-threatening adverse reactions (e.g., respiratory depression) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
ARYMO ER is designed to work properly only if swallowed intact.
Attempting to cut, break, crush, chew, or dissolve the tablets may result in a fatal overdose [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
ARYMO ER tablets should be taken one tablet at a time [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Do not pre-soak, lick, or otherwise wet the tablet prior to placing in the mouth [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Take each tablet with enough water to ensure complete swallowing immediately after placing in the mouth [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Do not discontinue ARYMO ER without first discussing the need for a tapering regimen with the prescriber [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Hypotension Inform patients that ARYMO ER may cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope.
Instruct patients how to recognize symptoms of low blood pressure and how to reduce the risk of serious consequences should hypotension occur (e.g., sit or lie down, carefully rise from a sitting or lying position) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Anaphylaxis Inform patients that anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in ARYMO ER.
Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention [see CONTRAINDICATIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Pregnancy Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome Inform female patients of reproductive potential that prolonged use of ARYMO ER during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Use in Specific Populations].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Inform female patients of reproductive potential that ARYMO ER can cause fetal harm and to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations].
Lactation Advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with ARYMO ER [see Use in Specific Populations].
Infertility Inform patients that chronic use of opioids may cause reduced fertility.
It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible [see Use in Specific Populations].
Driving Or Operating Heavy Machinery Inform patients that ARYMO ER may impair the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating heavy machinery.
Advise patients not to perform such tasks until they know how they will react to the medication [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Constipation Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention [see ADVERSE REACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Disposal Of Unused ARYMO ER Advise patients to flush the unused tablets down the toilet when ARYMO ER is no longer needed.
Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, 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 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 this 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.
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).
Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Risk Summary Prolonged use of opioid analgesics during pregnancy can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
There are no available data with ARYMO ER in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage.
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 estimated 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 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Prolonged use of opioid analgesics 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].
Labor or Delivery Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic effects in neonates.
An opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, must be available for reversal of opioid induced respiratory depression in the neonate.
ARYMO ER 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 ARYMO ER, 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 increased risk for congenital malformations.
However, these studies cannot definitely establish the absence of any risk because of methodological limitations, including small sample size and non-randomized study design.
Animal Data Formal reproductive and developmental toxicology studies for morphine have not been conducted.
Exposure margins for the following published study reports are based on human daily dose of 60 mg morphine using a body surface area comparison (HDD).
Neural tube defects (exencephaly and cranioschisis) were noted following subcutaneous administration of morphine sulfate (35-322 mg/kg) on Gestation Day 8 to pregnant hamsters (4.7 to 43.5 times the HDD).
A no adverse effect level was not defined in this study and the findings cannot be clearly attributed to maternal toxicity.
Neural tube defects (exencephaly), axial skeletal fusions, and cryptorchidism were reported following a single subcutaneous (SC) injection of morphine sulfate to pregnant mice (100-500 mg/kg) on Gestation Day 8 or 9 at 200 mg/kg or greater (16 times the HDD) and fetal resorption at 400 mg/kg or higher (32 times the HDD).
No adverse effects were noted following 100 mg/kg morphine in this model (8 times the HDD).
In one study, following continuous subcutaneous infusion of doses greater than or equal to 2.72 mg/kg to mice (0.2 times the HDD), exencephaly, hydronephrosis, intestinal hemorrhage, split supraoccipital, malformed sternebrae, and malformed xiphoid were noted.
The effects were reduced with increasing daily dose; possibly due to rapid induction of tolerance under these infusion conditions.
The clinical significance of this report is not clear.
Decreased fetal weights were observed in pregnant rats treated with 20 mg/kg/day morphine sulfate (3.2 times the HDD) from Gestation Day 7 to 9.
There was no evidence of malformations despite maternal toxicity (10% mortality).
In a second rat study, decreased fetal weight and increased incidences of growth retardation were noted at 35 mg/kg/day (5.7 times the HDD) and there was a reduced number of fetuses at 70 mg/kg/day (11.4 times the HDD) when pregnant rats were treated with 10, 35, or 70 mg/kg/day morphine sulfate via continuous infusion from Gestation Day 5 to 20.
There was no evidence of fetal malformations or maternal toxicity.
An increased incidence of abortion was noted in a study in which pregnant rabbits were treated with 2.5 (0.8 times the HDD) to 10 mg/kg morphine sulfate via subcutaneous injection from Gestation Day 6 to 10.
In a second study, decreased fetal body weights were reported following treatment of pregnant rabbits with increasing doses of morphine (10-50 mg/kg/day) during the pre-mating period and 50 mg/kg/day (16 times the HDD) throughout the gestation period.
No overt malformations were reported in either publication; although only limited endpoints were evaluated.
In published studies in rats, exposure to morphine during gestation and/or lactation periods is associated with: decreased pup viability at 12.5 mg/kg/day or greater (2 times the HDD); decreased pup body weights at 15 mg/kg/day or greater (2.4 times the HDD); decreased litter size, decreased absolute brain and cerebellar weights, cyanosis, and hypothermia at 20 mg/kg/day (3.2 times the HDD); alteration of behavioral responses (play, social-interaction) at 1 mg/kg/day or greater (0.2 times the HDD); alteration of maternal behaviors (e.g., decreased nursing and pup retrievals) in mice at 1 mg/kg or higher (0.08 times the HDD) and rats at 1.5 mg/kg/day or higher (0.2 times the HDD); and a host of behavioral abnormalities in the offspring of rats, including altered responsiveness to opioids at 4 mg/kg/day (0.7 times the HDD) or greater.
Fetal and/or postnatal exposure to morphine in mice and rats has been shown to result in morphological changes in fetal and neonatal brain and neuronal cell loss, alteration of a number of neurotransmitter and neuromodulator systems, including opioid and non-opioid systems, and impairment in various learning and memory tests that appear to persist into adulthood.
These studies were conducted with morphine treatment usually in the range of 4 to 20 mg/kg/day (0.7 to 3.2 times the HDD).
Additionally, delayed sexual maturation and decreased sexual behaviors in female offspring at 20 mg/kg/day (3.2 times the HDD), and decreased plasma and testicular levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, decreased testes weights, seminiferous tubule shrinkage, germinal cell aplasia, and decreased spermatogenesis in male offspring were also observed at 20 mg/kg/day (3.2 times the HDD).
Decreased litter size and viability were observed in the offspring of male rats that were intraperitoneally administered morphine sulfate for 1 day prior to mating at 25 mg/kg/day (4.1 times the HDD) and mated to untreated females.
Decreased viability and body weight and/or movement deficits in both first and second generation offspring were reported when male mice were treated for 5 days with escalating doses of 120 to 240 mg/kg/day morphine sulfate (9.7 to 19.5 times the HDD) or when female mice treated with escalating doses of 60 to 240 mg/kg/day (4.9 to 19.5 times the HDD) followed by a 5-day treatment-free recovery period prior to mating.
Similar multigenerational findings were also seen in female rats pregestationally treated with escalating doses of 10 to 22 mg/kg/day morphine (1.6 to 3.6 times the HDD).
Lactation Risk Summary Morphine is present in breast milk.
Published lactation studies report variable concentrations of morphine in breast milk with administration of immediate-release morphine to nursing mothers in the early postpartum period with a milk-to-plasma morphine AUC ratio of 2.5:1 measured in one lactation study.
However, there is insufficient information to determine the effects of morphine on the breastfed infant and the effects of morphine on milk production.
Lactation studies have not been conducted with extended-release morphine, including ARYMO ER.
Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, including excess sedation and respiratory depression in a breastfed infant, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with ARYMO ER.
Clinical Considerations Monitor infants exposed to ARYMO ER through breast milk for excess sedation and respiratory depression.
Withdrawal symptoms can occur in breastfed infants when maternal administration of morphine is stopped, or when breastfeeding is stopped.
Females And Males Of Reproductive Potential Infertility Chronic use of opioids may cause reduced fertility in females and males of reproductive potential.
It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible [see ADVERSE REACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Nonclinical Toxicology].
In published animal studies, morphine administration adversely effected fertility and reproductive endpoints in male rats and prolonged estrus cycle in female rats [see Nonclinical Toxicology].
Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 18 have not been established.
Geriatric Use The pharmacokinetics of ARYMO ER have not been studied in elderly patients.
Clinical studies of morphine sulfate extended-release formulations did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
Elderly patients (aged 65 years or older) may have increased sensitivity to morphine.
In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, 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 ARYMO ER slowly in geriatric patients and monitor closely for signs of central nervous system and respiratory depression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
This drug 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.
Hepatic Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics have been reported to be significantly altered in patients with cirrhosis.
Start these patients with a lower than usual dosage of ARYMO ER and titrate slowly while monitoring for signs of respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Renal Impairment Morphine pharmacokinetics are altered in patients with renal failure.
Start these patients with a lower than usual dosage of ARYMO ER and titrate slowly while monitoring for signs of respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
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