Kadian

Kadian belongs to a class of drugs called narcotic pain relievers.

Kadian is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Extended-release Kadian capsules are used when around-the-clock pain relief is needed.

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

You may not be able to take Kadian unless you are already being treated with a similar opioid pain medicine and your body is tolerant to it. Talk with your doctor if you are not sure you are opioid-tolerant.

Kadian may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Kadian should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not drink alcohol while you are using Kadian. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with Kadian. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol.

Never take more than your prescribed dose of Kadian. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

Do not stop taking Kadian suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication.

Use Kadian exactly as it was prescribed for you. Never take Kadian in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Too much Kadian could be very harmful. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

To make swallowing easier, you may open the extended-release capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of apple sauce. Swallow this mixture right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.

Do not stop using Kadian suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication. Store Kadian at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light.

Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Morphine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.