Kadian
Generic Name:
Morphine sulfate
Brand Names:
Kadian
Kadian Description:
Kadian is a strong opioid painkiller prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe pain that is expected to last for a long period of time. Kadian is an extended-release medication containing morphine that can be taken once or twice daily for pain management.
A Schedule II drug under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act, Kadian has a high potential for abuse. Abuse of Kadian can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
Kadian Side Effects:
Nearly all patients using opioids such as Kadian experience constipation.
For more information, see our Kadian side effects page.
Kadian Uses:
Kadian is prescribed for the management of long-term or chronic pain. Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than 3 to 6 months and is often caused by illness, an accident, or cancer. Chronic pain interferes with the ability to perform daily activities and can’t often be cured.
Kadian treats moderate to severe chronic pain by providing up to 24 hours of pain relief with morphine, an opioid agent that acts on the brain and nervous system to ease pain.
Kadian Interactions:
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Kadian, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs may not be able to be taken in combination with Kadian, as interactions may occur:
- Cimetidine
- Diuretics
- Medications that may cause drowsiness
- Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors
- Muscle relaxants
- Phenothiazines
- Sleeping medications or tranquilizers
Kadian Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Kadian is available in various strengths (10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 80, 100, and 200 mg), with doses individualized for each patient depending on conditions such as pain level and opioid tolerance. The 100 mg and 200 mg capsule should only be used by opioid-tolerant patients.
Patients with no opioid tolerance are typically started with 10 mg or 20 mg Kadian taken either once or twice daily. A doctor will determine the correct dosage. Capsules should only be swallowed whole and never chewed to prevent overdose.
Missing a Dose of Kadian
If you miss a dose of Kadian, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule.
Kadian Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication. Signs of overdose include extreme sleepiness, coma, muscle weakness, cold or clammy skin, constricted pupils, and slow heartbeat.
Kadian FDA Approval:
July 3, 1996
Kadian Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is a Black Box warning on Kadian concerning the potential for abuse associated with morphine medications. A history of alcohol or other substance abuse could increase the risk of dependence or abuse with Kadian.
Kadian should not be used in opioid-tolerant patients who have been using other prescription narcotic pain medications such as morphine and codeine on a regular basis.
Kadian capsules should never be chew, crushed, or dissolved, as too much of the extended-release medication could be released at once and lead to a serious overdose and possibly death.
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