Morphine is a narcotic that is derived from opium. It was first obtained from unripe seed pods of an unripe opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) by a German pharmacist, F. W. A. Sertuerner. Morphine was used as a pain-killer, and as a cure for opium addiction. The mechanism of action of morphine occurs by binding at the mu-opioid receptor in the brain. It impairs mental and physical performance, relieves fear and anxiety, and produces euphoria. It also decreases hunger, inhibits the cough reflex, produces constipation, and usually reduces the sex drive; in women it may interfere with the menstrual cycle. Morphine is used medicinally for severe pain, cough suppression, and as an anesthetic.
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