United Kingdom
A 35-year-old male asked:
My doctor doesn't want me on ms contin (morphine) as he feels i may become tolerant or addicted. my doctor is excellent, just wanted second opinion. any thought?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in

Dr. Mitchell Cohnanswered
Pain Management 37 years experience
Yes: Developing tolerance to an opiate is inevitable.It's a normal physiological event.This is NOT addiction which is a craving for more meds beyond what is reasonable for pain control leading to deceptive/destructive behavior.Truth is, more people appear to have 'addictive behavior' when insufficient opiates are used;then they request more which scares the dr.Oxycontin is a good med when used right.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Paul Grinanswered
Pain Management 38 years experience
Agree w/ your doctor: As opposed to many other medications used in pain, opioids do not cause organ damage with long-term use. But because of concerns about tolerance, physical dependence and addiction, many health professionals are still reluctant to prescribe opioids for chronic pain.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 28, 2014
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