[mani3433]

Hi everyone,
I have a question about I had yesterday. She had a c-section and she was complaining of pruritus all over the body. She had an epidural block for the gurgery and morphine for analgesia. I am wondering why is that? Is tis because she was on morphine?
thanx

[prmenrs]

In a way. It's likely from the Duramorph used in the epidural. This a very common side effect. There may be an order for Benadryl.

[moongirl]

morphine makes me wanna scrape all my skin off with a steak knife!!!
very itchy!

[SmilingBluEyes]

Benedryl or Nubain both work where I am. But I use Benedryl first---Durmorph is infamous for terrible itching later on.

[Elvish]

Originally Posted by SmilingBluEyes

Durmorph is infamous for terrible itching later on.

I have found this too. Ditto on the Benadryl & Nubain. I like to use Benadryl if they're itching but pain is well-controlled by Duramorph. If they're itching but still hurting (or nauseous) I go with Nubain.

[MemphisOBRNC]

We also have an order for Allegra 120 mg po for the itching. I like using the Nubain best.

[Dayray]

25 of demerol does it too

[Elvish]

I don't think we use Demerol AT ALL where I am. I remember when I worked med-surg (different hospital) we gave Dem/Phen like it was water. I haven't done that at all where I am now.

[SmilingBluEyes]

We dont' use demerol on the unit at all.

[mitchsmom]

We don't use demerol at all, either.

I think the order of use for duramorph-related itching on our neuraxial orders go:
nubain, benedryl, narcan