Archived: extended-release epidural morphine sulfate (Depodur)

Advice

Following a full submission

extended-release epidural morphine (Depodur) is not recommended for use within NHS Scotland for the relief of post-operative pain following major orthopaedic, abdominal or pelvic surgery.

Extended-release epidural morphine has shown some advantages in terms of efficacy versus a single-dose of epidural opioid. Evidence for clinical efficacy was obtained from studies that do not reflect current practice for epidural analgesia in NHS Scotland.

The manufacturer did not present a sufficiently robust clinical or economic analysis to gain acceptance by the SMC.

The licence holder has indicated their intention to resubmit