Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 17, 2026

Assessment of Morphine-induced Hyperalgesia and Analgesic Tolerance in Mice Using Thermal and Mechanical Nociceptive Modalities
Published on: July 29, 2014
Rapid-Onset Opioid-Induced Neurotoxicity During Morphine Therapy
Erica Weilein1, Magdelene Doris Amoateng1, Eduardo Bruera1
1Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
Abstract:
PurposeOpioid therapy is central to cancer pain management and aims to provide effective analgesia while minimizing neurotoxic adverse effects; however, cognitive dysfunction, delirium, and hallucinations continue to be significant complications.SummaryOpioid-induced neurotoxicity (OIN) has been associated with higher opioid doses, poor functional status, and advanced disease burden, and is frequently an underrecognized contributor to delirium. We describe an unusual case of visual and auditory hallucinations shortly after morphine exposure, with prompt reversibility after opioid rotation and recurrence upon rechallenge.ConclusionThis case strengthens the causal association between morphine exposure and hallucinations and emphasizes the importance of early recognition and opioid rotation in reversing opioid-related neurotoxicity.
Related Concept Videos
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Toxidromes: Clinical Features
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
