Rapid-Onset Opioid-Induced Neurotoxicity During Morphine Therapy.

Authors

Erica Weilein, Magdelene Doris Amoateng, Eduardo Bruera

Published in

The American journal of hospice & palliative care. Pages 10499091261498828. Oct 16, 2026. Epub Oct 16, 2026.

Abstract

PurposeOpioid therapy is central to cancer pain management and aims to provide effective analgesia while minimizing neurotoxic adverse effects; however, cognitive dysfunction, delirium, and hallucinations continue to be significant complications.SummaryOpioid-induced neurotoxicity (OIN) has been associated with higher opioid doses, poor functional status, and advanced disease burden, and is frequently an underrecognized contributor to delirium. We describe an unusual case of visual and auditory hallucinations shortly after morphine exposure, with prompt reversibility after opioid rotation and recurrence upon rechallenge.ConclusionThis case strengthens the causal association between morphine exposure and hallucinations and emphasizes the importance of early recognition and opioid rotation in reversing opioid-related neurotoxicity.

PMID:
42885728
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 16 Oct 2026.

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