Morphine · Medicine question

Can morphine cause or worsen sleep apnoea?

iatroX medicinesPublished 8 November 2026

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Morphine, an opioid, can cause central sleep apnoea and worsen pre-existing sleep apnoea, with the risk of central sleep apnoea increasing with dose in some patients.

Sources for this answer

Zomorph capsulesEthypharm UK Ltd · emc · SmPC §4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use · Version 18Document updated 14 August 2025

Sources checked 8 November 2026

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