morphine (Skyepharma, 04258f)

Extended-release epidural morphine, marketed under the brand name DepoDur, is a liposomal formulation of morphine sulfate designed for single-dose epidural administration to provide prolonged post-operative analgesia. Utilizing the proprietary DepoFoam multivesicular liposomal technology, the drug releases morphine over a period of up to 48 hours, reducing the need for supplemental analgesics and continuous epidural infusions. It acts as a potent agonist at the mu-opioid receptors in the spinal cord and brain, inhibiting ascending pain pathways and altering the perception of and response to pain. It was originally developed by SkyePharma and approved by the FDA in 2004 for the management of pain following major surgery, such as orthopedic, abdominal, or pelvic procedures.

Brand names

DepoDur

Other names

Extended-release epidural morphineEREMLiposomal morphineSustained-relief morphineMorphine sulfate liposome injection