[tyler]

hi,

this is an informational question, i'm in a drugs and behavior (pharmacology) class this semester.

if an alcoholic patient were administered morphine for pain, could the morphine alleviate, delay, or mask the signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal? what about DT?

this could be a concern when a pt. does not report alcohol addiction and abuse yet is at risk or puts others at risk if he/she becomes agitated, violent, beligerent, and etc.

thanks

[AlexCCRN]

No, morphine would not mask etoh withdrawl signs but may alter pt's subjective reports and behaviour. DTs would ensue in a timely progression, becoming evident within 8-12 hours.