Clinical Research: Analgesia and Morphine Disposition in Burn Patients

Abstract

Following intravenous administration of morphine (MS) to eight burn patients, the plasma concentration of MS, along with the analgesic effect, was determined over time. The pharmacokinetic measurements revealed rapid and extensive distribution of the morphine as well as rapid elimination. The values did not differ significantly from those found in normal controls. A plot of the mean log MS vs. mean pain relief demonstrated a relationship between the plasma concentration and the analgesic effect. The findings show that burn patients can eliminate morphine normally and can receive effective pain relief when plasma concentration is sufficient.