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Tips for Careworkers:
Myths about Morphine

What it is: Opioids are analgesics. They are medications often used to treat pain related to terminal illnesses.
Morphine is an opioid. It is often used in palliative care to manage moderate to severe pain. There are other opioids. Myths are widely believed but untrue beliefs.
Why it matters: Morphine provides effective pain relief. The dose can be adjusted to reduce pain. Older people and their family may have heard myths about morphine and be concerned. Careworkers have direct contact with the person and their family and can ask nursing/supervisory staff to answer any questions they may have.
What I need to know: Facts and common myths about morphine use.
Myth
Once on morphine the end is near.
Fact
Morphine properly used does not cause death, the underlying illness does.
Myth
Enduring pain will enhance one’s character.
Fact
Pain decreases quality of life and causes suffering.
Myth
Morphine is addictive.
Fact
When given at the right dose to relieve pain, morphine is not addictive.
Myth
Injections are better than oral.
Fact
Oral preparations are as effective as injections; long-acting forms mean better pain control and less frequent administration.
Myth
Side effects (nausea, vomiting, constipation, sleepiness etc.) are due to allergies.
Fact
Allergies to morphine are rare, side effects can be managed and should be reported to the prescriber.
Myth
Tolerance to morphine will develop and higher doses will be needed.
Fact
Tolerance develops slowly. Disease progression may cause increasing pain and increased need for analgesia.
Myth
Morphine is a treatment for cancer.
Fact
No, morphine is not a treatment for cancer, it is an analgesic medication used to relieve the symptoms of pain.
My reflections:
Why might a person need increasing doses of morphine?
Who should answer any questions that older people and their families might have about morphine or other opioids?
For references and the latest version of all the Tip Sheets visit
Practice Tip sheets for careworkers
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Updated July 2022
Page updated 22 July 2026