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Recovery of morphine from a controlled-release preparation. A source of opioid abuse
1Department of Anesthesia, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Ohio.
Abstract:
MS-Contin (Purdue-Fredrick, Norwalk, CT) is a controlled-release preparation of morphine sulfate that has demonstrated efficacy in the management of chronic cancer pain problems. It has recently come to the attention of the authors that MS-Contin represents a potential source of opioid abuse through the extraction and intravenous injection of the morphine from this preparation. The authors describe a simple aqueous extraction method that was used to quantitatively determine the extent to which morphine could be obtained from MS-Contin tablets.
Insights
Morphine sulfate extended-release (MS-Contin) tablets can be exploited for opioid abuse. A simple extraction method shows morphine can be quantitatively recovered from these tablets.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Drug Abuse Studies
Background:
- Morphine sulfate extended-release (MS-Contin) is prescribed for chronic cancer pain.
- Concerns exist regarding the potential for MS-Contin abuse via extraction and intravenous injection.
Observation:
- The authors investigated the abuse potential of MS-Contin.
- A simple aqueous extraction method was employed.
Findings:
- Morphine can be quantitatively extracted from MS-Contin tablets.
- This extraction method confirms the feasibility of obtaining morphine for abuse.
Implications:
- MS-Contin abuse is a significant public health concern.
- Extraction methods highlight the need for abuse-deterrent formulations.
- Further research into preventing opioid diversion is warranted.