Hypotension to a systolic BP of less than 80 mmHg within 30 minutes of administration has been reported. Supplemental analgesia may be required. If other narcotics are administered, the increased risk of respiratory depression must be taken into consideration. Post-dural puncture headache may occur. Intrathecal morphine has been implicated in re-activation of oral herpes simplex lesions.
Respiratory depression is a rare but serious complication.
With spinal morphine, this may not occur until 12 hours after administration. The risk of this is increased if additional parenteral narcotics are given. Sensory alterations in the cervical region, dysphagia, and dyspnea have been described following intrathecal sufentanil administration. The amount of narcotics given should not exceed commonly reported dosages, and fetal heart rate must be monitored. Ideally, for 30 minutes after intrathecal narcotic administration, the physician responsible for the delivery will not be the physician responsible for the administering and supervising the management of the intrathecal narcotic.