Slow-release tablets containing 10 mg morphine sulphate (MST-1 Continus - Napp) have recently been introduced for the long-term management of patients with severe and intractable pain. Morphine is the analgesic of choice for severe pain in cancer,1 but when given by mouth as an aqueous solution it needs to be taken every 4 hours. This solution is convenient for most patients, but those who are forgetful, live alone or have poor eyesight may find their therapy difficult to manage. The aim of a slow-release formulation of morphine is to allow a reduction in the frequency of analgesic administration, and given at bedtime it may also help patients who would otherwise wake in pain in the early morning.
