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Jan 15

Clinically Reviewed by Linda Whiteside, LPCC

Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Ryan Peterson, MD

Zomorph: What It Is, Side-Effects of Taking It, & How to Get Help If Addicted To It

Zomorph: Side-Effects & Dangers

One of the strongest painkillers on the market, morphine is often prescribed to treat severe pain from an injury, an operation, pain from a heart, or from cancer. Additionally, some patients use morphine to manage chronic pain when other pain relievers are no longer able to alleviate their discomfort.

Numerous studies have been done, and the consensus is that morphine is one of the most effective pain management opiates available. It is strong enough that it is often used for those actively going through cancer treatments, as well as for keeping patients comfortable during end-of-life care.

The unfortunate truth is that while morphine is very effective at pain management, it is highly addictive. Because it is an opioid, it is a very strong pain reliever and it gives the user a very strong feeling of euphoria. This is true for all versions of morphine, including the extended-release version of morphine tablets, Zomorph. Some people may even have allergic reactions to the drug.

If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction to Zomorph, you are not alone. Addiction to morphine, Zomorph, heroin, and other opiates impacts more than 2 million Americans and about 15 million people globally every year. The good news is that drug use does not have to be forever. With a support system and a solid plan, you can get clean.

What is Zomorph?

Also called MXL, one of the varieties of morphine that is available is called Zomorph. It is a slow-release capsule that provides pain relief for a 24-hour period, allowing the patient to get relief from the pain they are dealing with, whether from surgery, cancer, or neuropathic pain. However, people having difficulty swallowing capsules can go for the injection option as well. Because Zomorph is so highly effective and long-lasting, it is very often misused and abused.

Zomorph Prescription

Patients are often prescribed Zomorph for:

Pain caused by cancer
Cancer treatments
Recovery from surgery
Injuries from an accident
Chronic pain
Comforting dying patients through end of life care

One of the negatives about being prescribed such a powerful pain reliever is that when the prescription runs out, the pain may still be lingering, and because of this, many people seek out more and eventually become dependent and, eventually, addicted. Many addictions begin with well-intended doctors providing their patients with pain relief.

Zomorph Side-Effects

One of the main reasons that Zomorph is abused is that it is an opioid medication, meaning it is derived from the opium poppy. One of the most desirable traits of opium is that it is extremely relaxing and gives the user an intense feeling of euphoria, happiness, and bliss. As you can imagine, a medication that is made from that same plant would have similar effects on the patients that take it.

While there are some perks to using Zomorph as prescribed by a doctor or pharmacist, all medications come with a risk of side effects. Never use it in combination with other medicines before consulting a professional aware of your medical or dental problem. Luckily, Zomorph doesn’t have a huge list of side effects like some medications do, but it is always important to proceed with caution.

Side effects can include:

Lack of appetite
Vomiting
Weakness
Fatigue
Low blood pressure
Breathing difficulties
Impotence
Loss of libido
Cessation of menstruation

Zomorph Addiction

It isn’t always easy to pick up on someone’s addiction, as some people are really good at hiding their drug abuse. It is generally recommended to not drink alcohol when on Zomorph as it enhances its drug-like effects. If you start to notice a change in someone you love, there is a chance that they are in the throes of addiction and need help to recover. Some of the common signs of addiction are:

Changes in behavior
Mood swings
Aggression
Lack of care for themselves and others
Loss of control
Denial

In addition to these behavioral indicators, there are also physical signs you may notice as well:

Insomnia
Slurred speech
Unusual body odors
Sudden change in weight
Poor coordination
Bloodshot eyes
Small or enlarged pupils
Looking unkempt

Some ways to avoid developing an addiction is to take your medicines on time. If you miss a dose, do not take it with the next dose, as it will magnify the effects of the slow-release tablets.

Zomorph Withdrawal

One of the reasons that opioids, especially morphine, are so dangerous is that the body quickly builds up a tolerance when taken regularly. Whether the use is medicinal or recreational does not matter. Unfortunately, morphine and Zomorph are generally prescribed to those that are no longer getting relief from other opioid pain relievers.

As the body becomes tolerant of Zomorph, the body and brain will soon become dependent on it. According to DEA classifications, morphine is at the highest level of controlled substances with medicinal value. It is considered a Schedule II drug, which means it is both psychologically and physically addictive, and there is a high chance of it being abused.

Zomorph Withdrawal Recovery

Withdrawals and recovery can be extremely tough with Zomorph. When dependence happens, the user’s brain circuitry has already been altered due to the disruption of the brain’s natural chemistry. When Zomorph is ingested, the opioid receptors are filled, which causes a flood of dopamine. This rush lowers the blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and respiration levels to lower. When this happens, the person taking it will feel relaxed, mellow, and pain-free.

When detoxing, users may start feeling withdrawal symptoms right when the Zomorph is no longer effective in the bloodstream. With regular morphine, these symptoms begin between 6 and 12 hours after the last dose. Zomorph is a 24-hour extended-release, so it may be closer to the 1-day mark.

Withdrawal symptoms include:

Runny nose
Yawning
Increased perspiration
Irritability
Nausea
Vomiting
Inability to feel pleasure
Muscle pain
Diarrhea
Sneezing
Tremors
Goosebumps
Increase blood pressure

Many people that have experienced withdrawal symptoms from Zomorph compare the experience to having an extremely severe case of the flu. While the withdrawals are often quite intense, those that make it through the detox feel better in about a week. Luckily, there are plenty of options for recovery.

How to Get Help If Addicted to Zomorph

Addiction can make someone feel alone, isolated, and unsupported, but there is hope. Most people have more of a support system than they realize. Whether you choose to handle your recovery on your own or through a treatment center, there is hope. With some hard work and a strong support system, you can get clean.
If you are addicted to Zomorph, the time to get help is now. Reach out to a premier rehab facility that can give you the support and guidance you need to make drug-free living your norm for the rest of your life.

FAQ

Q. Can you become addicted to Zomorph?

Yes, Zomorph can be addictive. It acts on the same opioid receptors in the brain as morphine and other opioids and can lead to physical dependence if taken over a prolonged period of time. If you have been taking Zomorph for an extended period and feel that you may have developed an addiction, it is important to seek help right away.

Q. Is Zomorph good for pain?

Zomorph is a very effective pain reliever and can be used for the short-term relief of moderate to severe pain. However, it should only be used as prescribed by your doctor and not taken in larger doses than recommended. It should also not be taken for longer periods of time than prescribed due to its potential for addiction.

Q. What happens if you overdose on Zomorph?

An overdose of Zomorph can be fatal. Symptoms of an overdose include slow and shallow breathing, lethargy, confusion, loss of consciousness, coma, cold and clammy skin, blue lips and fingernails, muscle weakness or limpness, and pupils that are smaller than normal. If you suspect someone has overdosed on Zomorph, get them help immediately.

Q. How long does Zomorph withdrawal last?

The duration of Zomorph withdrawal varies from person to person and depends on the amount of time a person has been taking the drug. Generally, symptoms peak 72 hours after the last dose was taken and can last up to two weeks as the body adjusts back to its natural state.

Q. Will Zomorph make me sleep?

Zomorph can make people feel tired and drowsy due to its sedative effects. However, it is not recommended to take Zomorph solely for the purpose of sleeping, as this could lead to dependence. If you are having difficulty sleeping, seek professional help from your doctor or mental health provider.

Q. Is Zomorph slow-acting?

Yes, Zomorph is an extended-release medication and is designed to be taken in one dose once a day. This allows the drug to slowly enter the bloodstream over time, providing more consistent relief of pain throughout the day. It can take several hours for the effects of Zomorph to reach their peak level, but then it will remain in your system for up to 24 hours.

Q. Does Zomorph affect blood pressure?

Yes, Zomorph can affect blood pressure. It is important to discuss your complete medical history with your doctor before taking Zomorph as it may increase your risk for hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. If you have had issues with high blood pressure in the past, make sure to let your doctor know so they can adjust your dosage appropriately.

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Sources

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