Thursday, February 9, 2017

Why is morphine contraindicated in case of a head injury?


Morphine is contraindicated in cases of head injuries due to three reasons:- 1. It retains carbon dioxide and increases inflammation of connective tissue (ICT) 2. Therapeutic doses of morphine could cause respiratory depression 3. It interferes with assessment of head injury by inducing vomiting, miosis and altered mentation Morphine should not be given also to patients who suffer with chronic asthma or pulmonary disorders and those who have upper airway obstruction. In cases of head injury morphine could be highly dangerous as it can cause intra cranial pressure, tonsillar herniation and could be fatal.

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