MORPHINISM Meaning and
Definition
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Morphinism refers to a condition involving the excessive and prolonged use of morphine, a powerful opioid drug derived from opium. It is commonly associated with addiction to morphine or other similar opioid medications. In a medical and clinical context, morphinism is primarily characterized by physical and psychological dependence on morphine, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing its use abruptly.
Physiologically, morphinism leads to tolerance, which means that larger doses of morphine are required over time to achieve the same pain relief or euphoric effect. This often results in escalating dosages and potential overdoses, posing severe health risks. Withdrawal symptoms experienced by morphinism sufferers may include restlessness, anxiety, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and insomnia. These symptoms can be significant and make it exceedingly difficult for individuals to stop using morphine without appropriate medical intervention.
Psychologically, morphinism involves a distorted mental preoccupation with acquiring, using, and obtaining morphine. It can lead to an uncontrollable and compulsive desire to obtain morphine, disregarding the negative consequences it may have on health, relationships, and overall well-being.
Morphinism is a serious medical condition that requires professional intervention and treatment, often involving a combination of medical detoxification, psychotherapy, and medication-assisted therapies. It is essential to address morphinism promptly to prevent further physical and psychological damage, and to support individuals in their recovery process.
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Morphine habit; the habitual use of morphine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MORPHINISM
- norphinism
- korphinism
- jorphinism
- mirphinism
- mkrphinism
- mlrphinism
- mprphinism
- m0rphinism
- m9rphinism
- moephinism
- modphinism
- mofphinism
- motphinism
- mo5phinism
- mo4phinism
- morohinism
- morlhinism
- mor-hinism
- mor0hinism
- morpginism
Etymology of MORPHINISM
The term "Morphinism" is derived from the word "morphine", which is a powerful narcotic analgesic drug. Morphine was first isolated from opium in the early 19th century by Friedrich Sertürner, a German pharmacist. Sertürner named the compound after Morpheus, the Greek god of dreams, due to the drug's ability to induce profound sedation and euphoria.
The suffix "-ism" is commonly added to words to indicate a condition, practice, or doctrine. In the case of "Morphinism", it refers to the condition or addiction associated with the use of morphine. The term was initially used to describe the physical and psychological dependence that can develop with the prolonged use of morphine or other opioid drugs. It has since been replaced with terms like "opioid use disorder" or "opioid addiction" in modern medical terminology.
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