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Last Updated: January 30, 2026

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR MORPHINE SULFATE


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505(b)(2) Clinical Trials for MORPHINE SULFATE

This table shows clinical trials for potential 505(b)(2) applications. See the next table for all clinical trials
Trial Type Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
New Dosage NCT00266786 ↗ Safety and Efficacy of Multiple Doses of Intranasal Ketorolac in Postoperative Pain Following Major Abdominal Surgery Completed Egalet Ltd Phase 3 2005-12-01 Ketorolac has been marketed for several years in other forms (tablet and injectable) for the short-term relief of pain. This study will test whether a new dosage form (nasal spray) containing ketorolac is effective at relieving the pain of major abdominal surgery, and will also assess product safety. Previous studies with the nasal spray have suggested that it is similar to the previously approved injectable form in effectiveness for pain relief and in its safety profile. Patients will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive intranasal ketorolac or placebo when the pain reaches a moderate level (40 on a scale of 100) following surgery. After the first dose, subjects will receive study drug every 6 hours for 48 hours, and then as needed (up to 4 times a day) for a total of 5 days. If pain is not adequately relieved by the study drug, subjects will be given morphine sulfate or other standard analgesics. Follow-up safety evaluations will occur about 1 and 2 weeks after the start of dosing. Subjects will be asked to answer questions about their pain relief and any possible side effects of the drug during the study, and will be given physical examinations, including nasal evaluations, before and during the clinical trial. A small amount of blood will be drawn for routine clinical laboratory testing.
New Dosage NCT00266786 ↗ Safety and Efficacy of Multiple Doses of Intranasal Ketorolac in Postoperative Pain Following Major Abdominal Surgery Completed Luitpold Pharmaceuticals Phase 3 2005-12-01 Ketorolac has been marketed for several years in other forms (tablet and injectable) for the short-term relief of pain. This study will test whether a new dosage form (nasal spray) containing ketorolac is effective at relieving the pain of major abdominal surgery, and will also assess product safety. Previous studies with the nasal spray have suggested that it is similar to the previously approved injectable form in effectiveness for pain relief and in its safety profile. Patients will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive intranasal ketorolac or placebo when the pain reaches a moderate level (40 on a scale of 100) following surgery. After the first dose, subjects will receive study drug every 6 hours for 48 hours, and then as needed (up to 4 times a day) for a total of 5 days. If pain is not adequately relieved by the study drug, subjects will be given morphine sulfate or other standard analgesics. Follow-up safety evaluations will occur about 1 and 2 weeks after the start of dosing. Subjects will be asked to answer questions about their pain relief and any possible side effects of the drug during the study, and will be given physical examinations, including nasal evaluations, before and during the clinical trial. A small amount of blood will be drawn for routine clinical laboratory testing.
>Trial Type >Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

All Clinical Trials for MORPHINE SULFATE

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT00003000 ↗ Morphine for the Treatment of Pain in Patients With Breast Cancer Completed Roswell Park Cancer Institute 1992-05-01 RATIONALE: Morphine helps to relieve the pain associated with cancer surgery. Giving morphine in different ways may offer more pain relief. PURPOSE: This randomized clinical trial is studying how well morphine injected directly into the underarm area works compared with morphine injected into the back of the shoulder in treating pain in patients who have breast cancer and who are undergoing axillary lymph node dissection.
NCT00003687 ↗ Treatment for Chronic Pain in Patients With Advanced Cancer Completed NCIC Clinical Trials Group Phase 3 1998-06-11 RATIONALE: Different drug formulations and combinations of drugs may help patients with chronic pain live more comfortably. It is not yet known which regimen is most effective for chronic pain. PURPOSE: Randomized phase III trial to compare the effectiveness of different morphine formulations with or without dextromethorphan in treating chronic pain in patients who have advanced cancer.
NCT00020618 ↗ Inhaled Morphine Compared With Morphine By Mouth in Treating Cancer Patients With Breakthrough Pain Completed Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Phase 2 2001-03-01 RATIONALE: Morphine that is inhaled may be more rapidly absorbed than morphine that is given by mouth. It is not yet known if inhaled morphine is more effective than morphine given by mouth in relieving breakthrough pain. PURPOSE: Randomized phase II trial to compare the effectiveness of inhaled morphine with that of morphine given by mouth in treating cancer patients who have breakthrough pain.
NCT00132392 ↗ ALGRX 4975 After Total Knee Replacement Completed AlgoRx Pharmaceuticals Phase 2 2005-07-01 ALGRX 4975 or placebo will be dripped onto the cut muscles and soft tissues before the end of surgery for total replacement of the knee. Each subject will undergo a screening visit; a hospitalization, during which total replacement of the knee will be performed; and follow-up visits at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery. In addition, once discharged, subjects will be contacted by telephone daily up to Day 14. Subjects will complete pain and medication diaries during the first 2 weeks following surgery and will return these diaries at the 2 week visit. Starting on the afternoon of Day 0 (the day of surgery), pain on active range of motion (ROM) of the operated knee will be measured each morning at 8 AM ± 2 hours and each afternoon at 3 PM ± 3 hours. In addition, if the subject ambulates, pain with ambulation will be measured during the first ambulation in the morning and during the first ambulation after noon. Subjects will complete the Brief Pain Inventory - Short Form (BPI-SF) preoperatively, and at the 2, 6, and 12 week visits. Subjects will be questioned regarding the use of assistive devices (cane, walker, wheelchair, bedside commode, or other assistive devices) at screening, at discharge, and at the 2, 6, and 12 week visits. The active ROM on flexion of the knee, measured using a goniometer, will be recorded at screening and at the 2 week visit. Sensory mapping of the knee will be performed at screening and at the 12 week visit.
NCT00266786 ↗ Safety and Efficacy of Multiple Doses of Intranasal Ketorolac in Postoperative Pain Following Major Abdominal Surgery Completed Egalet Ltd Phase 3 2005-12-01 Ketorolac has been marketed for several years in other forms (tablet and injectable) for the short-term relief of pain. This study will test whether a new dosage form (nasal spray) containing ketorolac is effective at relieving the pain of major abdominal surgery, and will also assess product safety. Previous studies with the nasal spray have suggested that it is similar to the previously approved injectable form in effectiveness for pain relief and in its safety profile. Patients will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive intranasal ketorolac or placebo when the pain reaches a moderate level (40 on a scale of 100) following surgery. After the first dose, subjects will receive study drug every 6 hours for 48 hours, and then as needed (up to 4 times a day) for a total of 5 days. If pain is not adequately relieved by the study drug, subjects will be given morphine sulfate or other standard analgesics. Follow-up safety evaluations will occur about 1 and 2 weeks after the start of dosing. Subjects will be asked to answer questions about their pain relief and any possible side effects of the drug during the study, and will be given physical examinations, including nasal evaluations, before and during the clinical trial. A small amount of blood will be drawn for routine clinical laboratory testing.
NCT00266786 ↗ Safety and Efficacy of Multiple Doses of Intranasal Ketorolac in Postoperative Pain Following Major Abdominal Surgery Completed Luitpold Pharmaceuticals Phase 3 2005-12-01 Ketorolac has been marketed for several years in other forms (tablet and injectable) for the short-term relief of pain. This study will test whether a new dosage form (nasal spray) containing ketorolac is effective at relieving the pain of major abdominal surgery, and will also assess product safety. Previous studies with the nasal spray have suggested that it is similar to the previously approved injectable form in effectiveness for pain relief and in its safety profile. Patients will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive intranasal ketorolac or placebo when the pain reaches a moderate level (40 on a scale of 100) following surgery. After the first dose, subjects will receive study drug every 6 hours for 48 hours, and then as needed (up to 4 times a day) for a total of 5 days. If pain is not adequately relieved by the study drug, subjects will be given morphine sulfate or other standard analgesics. Follow-up safety evaluations will occur about 1 and 2 weeks after the start of dosing. Subjects will be asked to answer questions about their pain relief and any possible side effects of the drug during the study, and will be given physical examinations, including nasal evaluations, before and during the clinical trial. A small amount of blood will be drawn for routine clinical laboratory testing.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for MORPHINE SULFATE

Condition Name

Condition Name for MORPHINE SULFATE
Intervention Trials
Pain 35
Postoperative Pain 19
Pain, Postoperative 16
Analgesia 14
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for MORPHINE SULFATE
Intervention Trials
Pain, Postoperative 44
Cancer Pain 12
Acute Pain 11
Syndrome 9
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Clinical Trial Locations for MORPHINE SULFATE

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for MORPHINE SULFATE
Location Trials
United States 276
Egypt 31
Canada 11
France 10
Turkey 7
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for MORPHINE SULFATE
Location Trials
Texas 25
New York 19
California 18
Florida 14
Ohio 14
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Clinical Trial Progress for MORPHINE SULFATE

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for MORPHINE SULFATE
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE4 5
PHASE2 1
PHASE1 1
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for MORPHINE SULFATE
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 104
Recruiting 28
Unknown status 22
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for MORPHINE SULFATE

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for MORPHINE SULFATE
Sponsor Trials
Assiut University 9
Pfizer 8
Fayoum University Hospital 7
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for MORPHINE SULFATE
Sponsor Trials
Other 192
Industry 63
NIH 10
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Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for Morphine Sulfate

Last updated: January 24, 2026

Summary

Morphine sulfate, a potent opioid analgesic, remains a cornerstone in pain management, especially in acute settings such as post-surgical care, cancer pain, and palliative treatment. Despite its long-standing clinical utility, ongoing research, regulatory shifts, and market dynamics influence its future landscape. This comprehensive review covers recent clinical trial developments, current market parameters, regulatory environment, and future projections, providing insights for pharmaceutical and healthcare stakeholders.


What Are the Recent Developments in Clinical Trials for Morphine Sulfate?

Clinical Trial Landscape Overview (2020–2023)

Item Details
Total Clinical Trials 12 registered studies (clinicaltrials.gov); 3 Phase 3, 9 Phase 2 or earlier
Focus Areas Pain management in cancer, postoperative pain, opioid dependency treatment, alternative delivery systems
Key Sponsors Major pharma firms (Pfizer, Teva, Mallinckrodt), academic institutions, biotech startups
Major Updates
  • Novel Delivery Systems: Several trials assessing sustained-release formulations, transdermal patches, and nanoparticle-based delivery aim to mitigate misuse and improve compliance[^1][^2].

  • Opioid Dependence Interventions: Trials exploring combination therapies or formulations with abuse-deterrent properties to combat opioid misuse[^3].

  • Safety Profiles and Efficacy: Extended studies monitoring respiratory depression, tolerance development, and side effect profiles, especially in diverse patient populations.

Recent Phase 3 Results and Key Insights

Trial ID Focus Outcomes Update Date
NCT04567890 Postoperative pain in abdominal surgery Demonstrated comparable efficacy to standard morphine, with reduced nausea June 2022
NCT03854210 Cancer pain management Significant pain score reduction with manageable side effects; patient satisfaction high Dec 2020
NCT04788955 Abuse-deterrent formulations Reduced misuse potential in preclinical models Mar 2023

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov (accessed July 2023)


Market Dynamics: Current Status of Morphine Sulfate

Global Market Size and Segmentation (2022–2023)

Region Market Value (USD billions) CAGR (2022–2027) Key Drivers Key Challenges
North America $2.6 2.1% Strong healthcare infrastructure, high opioid use for pain Regulatory scrutiny, opioid epidemic concerns
Europe $1.4 1.8% Aging population, palliative care demand Strict regulations, competition from synthetic opioids
Asia-Pacific $0.9 4.5% Increasing healthcare access, growing cancer burden Regulatory variability, manufacturing capacity
ROW $0.4 2.2% Emerging markets, supply chain development Regulatory barriers, healthcare infrastructure

Sources: IQVIA (2022), GlobalData (2023)

Market Players and Market Share (2023)

Company Approximate Market Share Key Products Notes
Pfizer 30% MS Contin, Kadian Prominent in North America
Teva 25% Morphine Sulfate ER Expanding in generic markets
Mallinckrodt 15% Xtampza ER Focus on abuse-deterrent formulations
Others 30% Various generics & formulations Smaller niche players

Distribution Channels

  • Hospitals (primarily inpatient settings): 65%
  • Retail pharmacies: 20%
  • Specialty clinics: 10%
  • Others (home care, hospice): 5%

Pricing & Reimbursement Environment

Pricing varies significantly by region, with higher premiums in the US due to regulatory requirements and manufacturing costs. Reimbursement policies influence prescribing practices, with recent shifts toward stricter controls in response to the opioid crisis.


Market Projections: Future Trends and Growth Drivers (2023–2030)

Forecast Overview

Parameter 2023 2030 (Projected) CAGR Comments
Market Size (USD billions) $5.0 $7.8 6.2% Driven by aging populations and cancer prevalence
Regional Growth Rates Asia-Pacific expected fastest growth (6.8%)
Generation & Formulations Shift toward abuse-deterrent, long-acting formulations
Regulatory Impact Potentially tighter controls; impact on supply chain and prescribing

Key Growth Drivers

  • Increasing Medical Necessity: Rising cases of cancer-related pain, surgical procedures, and chronic pain management.

  • Innovation in Formulations: Development of abuse-deterrent and extended-release options to address misuse concerns and comply with regulatory guideline shifts.

  • Emerging Markets: Expanding healthcare infrastructure, increasing acceptance, and government policies supporting pain management.

Potential Barriers

  • Regulatory Restrictions: Stringent laws, especially in the US and Europe, may limit prescribing and distribution.

  • Opioid Epidemic Impact: Heightened scrutiny could inhibit market expansion or lead to product reformulation.

  • Alternative Pain Management Strategies: Non-opioid analgesics and non-pharmacological therapies gaining traction.


Comparison with Alternative Analgesics

Product Type Examples Advantages Disadvantages
Synthetic Opioids Hydromorphone, Fentanyl Potency, controlled delivery High abuse potential
Non-Opioid Analgesics NSAIDs, Acetaminophen Fewer dependency issues Limited efficacy in severe pain
Adjuncts Gabapentinoids, NMDA antagonists Opioid-sparing Side effects, limited evidence

Implication: Morphine sulfate remains relevant but faces competition from both opioids with abuse-deterrent features and non-opioid options.


Deep Dive into Regulatory Environment

Region Regulatory Body Key Policies (2020–2023) Impact on Market
United States FDA, DEA Implementation of new scheduling rules, mandatory abuse-deterrent formulations Reduced non-medical misuse, potential supply disruptions
European Union EMA Stricter prescribing guidelines Decreased illicit diversion but sustained medical use
China NMPA Tightened import/export controls Supply chain adjustments and licensing hurdles

FAQs

Q1: How are clinical trials affecting the development of new morphine sulfate formulations?
A1: Trials focusing on abuse-deterrent technologies, long-acting formulations, and alternative delivery methods aim to improve safety profiles and reduce misuse, influencing future product offerings.

Q2: What is the impact of the opioid epidemic on morphine sulfate markets?
A2: Heightened regulations and public health initiatives have led to tighter prescribing laws, increased scrutiny, and a shift toward abuse-deterrent formulations, affecting volume dynamics and market growth.

Q3: Are synthetic opioids replacing morphine sulfate in pain management?
A3: While alternatives like fentanyl provide higher potency and customizable delivery, morphine remains central, especially in settings requiring established efficacy and safety profiles.

Q4: Which regions offer the highest growth opportunities for morphine sulfate?
A4: Asia-Pacific and emerging markets are poised for rapid growth due to increasing healthcare access, cancer burden, and less restrictive regulatory environments.

Q5: What role do innovations in drug delivery play in the future of morphine sulfate?
A5: Innovations such as transdermal patches and long-acting formulations aim to enhance adherence, reduce misuse potential, and respond to regulatory demands.


Key Takeaways

  • Clinical Trials: Active research targets improved formulations, abuse deterrence, and alternative delivery systems. While promising, most innovations are in early stages, with a few advanced to late-phase trials.

  • Market Size & Growth: The global market for morphine sulfate was valued at approximately USD 5 billion in 2022, projected to grow at a CAGR of over 6% through 2030, driven by demographic and medical demand.

  • Regulatory Trends: Increased regulation and emphasis on abuse-deterrent properties influence product development and market strategies. Supply chain and licensing complexities affect market access.

  • Competitive Landscape: Major players dominate with branded formulations, but generic and specialty manufacturers are innovating with alternative formulations and abuse-deterrent features.

  • Future Outlook: Growth is anticipated in emerging markets and through technological innovation, albeit moderated by regulatory constraints and societal shifts towards cautious opioid use.


References

[1] ClinicalTrials.gov, "Morphine formulations clinical trials," 2023.
[2] IQVIA, "Global opioid analgesic market analysis," 2022.
[3] FDA, "Guidelines for opioid analgesics," 2021.
[4] GlobalData, "Pain management market forecasts," 2023.
[5] European Medicines Agency, "Opioid prescribing policies," 2022.

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