Astramorph PF and Imiglucerase

• Generic Name: morphine
• Dosage Forms: injection, solution
• Other Brand Names: Arymo ER, Kadian, MorphaBond ER, Avinza, MS Contin, Duramorph PF, Infumorph, Mitigo, RMS, Roxanol

Morphine injection is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It may also be used before or during surgery with an anesthetic (medicine that puts you to sleep). Morphine belongs to the group of medicines called narcotic analgesics (pain medicines). It acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain.

When a narcotic medicine is used for a long time, it may become habit-forming, causing mental or physical dependence. However, people who have continuing pain should not let the fear of dependence keep them from using narcotics to relieve their pain. Mental dependence (addiction) is not likely to occur when narcotics are used for this purpose. Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal side effects if treatment is stopped suddenly. However, severe withdrawal side effects can usually be prevented by gradually reducing the dose over a period of time before treatment is stopped completely.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: imiglucerase
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Cerezyme

Imiglucerase is a man-made form of an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body. It is used as an enzyme replacement in people with Type I Gaucher disease.

Gaucher disease is a genetic condition in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain fatty materials (lipids). Lipids can build up in the body, causing symptoms such as easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, anemia, bone or joint pain, enlarged liver or spleen, or weakened bones that are easily fractured.

Imiglucerase may improve the condition of the liver, spleen, bones, and blood cells in people with Type I Gaucher disease. However, imiglucerase is not a cure for this condition.

Imiglucerase may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.