Kapanol (Morphine Sulfate Pentahydrate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Kapanol Used For?
Kapanol is a medication that contains morphine sulfate pentahydrate, used primarily for managing severe pain that responds to opioids. It is also prescribed for alleviating distressing chronic breathlessness in patients with conditions like severe COPD, cardiac failure, and malignancies.
Primary Uses
Kapanol is used for the relief of severe pain and for chronic breathlessness in palliative care.
How It Works
Kapanol works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain and improve breathing.
Good to know: Kapanol is effective for pain relief and can also help with chronic breathlessness.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Kapanol
Kapanol should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, either once or twice daily. It is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Dosage Instructions
For severe pain, Kapanol is typically taken once every 24 hours or twice every 12 hours. For chronic breathlessness, the starting dose is usually one 10 mg capsule per day, not exceeding 30 mg daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice on what to do next.
Important: Never take more capsules than prescribed. If pain occurs between doses, do not take extra doses without consulting your doctor.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- drowsiness
- sweating
- confusion
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
- itchy skin
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- blurred vision
- faintness or heart palpitations
- hallucinations
- changes in urination
- unusual weakness
Impulse Control Issues
Kapanol may lead to issues with impulse control, including potential addiction and dependence.
Important Warnings
Kapanol comes with several important warnings regarding its use and potential risks.
Who Should Not Take Kapanol
Do not use Kapanol if you have a known allergy to morphine or any of its ingredients, are pregnant or trying to conceive, have severe drowsiness, a history of substance abuse, or certain medical conditions like severe kidney or liver disease.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, respiratory issues, or a history of seizures, among others.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Kapanol is not recommended during pregnancy as it can cause dependency in newborns. It may also pass into breast milk, affecting nursing infants.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients should use Kapanol with caution, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Kapanol may interact with several other medications, which can increase the risk of serious side effects.
- central nervous system depressants (e.g., sedatives, benzodiazepines)
- other opioids
- medications for depression (especially monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
- antihistamines
- muscle relaxants
- medications for seizures
- alcohol
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or driving while taking Kapanol, as it may cause dizziness and drowsiness.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol while taking Kapanol, as it can increase the risk of severe drowsiness and respiratory issues.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how Kapanol affects you.
Storage
Store Kapanol in a cool, dry place below 30°C, and keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, or breathing difficulties. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kapanol typically takes some time to start providing pain relief, and it is important to take it regularly as prescribed.
Yes, Kapanol can be taken before, with, or after food.
Yes, Kapanol can be addictive and may lead to dependence if not taken as prescribed.
Stopping Kapanol suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms and worsening pain. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
No, you should avoid alcohol while taking Kapanol due to the increased risk of severe side effects.
Elderly patients should use Kapanol with caution and may require adjusted dosages.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice on what to do next.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.