10/07/2017

Is Opium (Morphine) is useful in treatment of diarrhoea?


  • It is a very common question usually asked in theory examinations or practical vivas.
  • Lets see....

Tincture of Opium (Morphine) is useful in the treatment of diarrhea?

Answer:

·        Tincture of Opium contains Morphine as an active constituent.
·        Diarrhea is a clinical condition characterized by increased peristalsis movement causing passage of watery stool.

·        Morphine induces ilio-coliac spasm, reduces peristalsis, decreases GI secretions all these actions collectively cause Constipation.
·        Hence Tincture of Opium is useful for the treatment of diarrhea.

·        (because of high addiction potential of morphine a safer opioid analog Loperamide is used.)

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