1. What is Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME)?

Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME) is a standardized unit used to compare the potency of different opioid medications relative to morphine. It helps healthcare providers assess opioid dosing and monitor for potential overdose risk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MME equation:

Where:

• \( mg \) — Dose of the opioid medication in milligrams
• \( Conversion Factor \) — Potency factor relative to morphine

Common Conversion Factors:

• Morphine: 1.0
• Oxycodone: 1.5
• Hydromorphone: 4.0
• Codeine: 0.1
• Tramadol: 0.4
• Oxymorphone: 7.5

3. Importance of MME Calculation

Details: MME calculation is crucial for opioid risk assessment, medication management, and preventing opioid misuse. Higher MME doses are associated with increased risk of overdose and adverse effects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the opioid dose in milligrams and select the appropriate conversion factor based on the medication type. All values must be valid (dose > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a high MME dose?
A: Generally, doses above 50 MME per day are considered higher risk, and doses above 90 MME per day significantly increase overdose risk.

Q2: Why is MME calculation important?
A: It standardizes opioid potency across different medications, helping clinicians make safer prescribing decisions and monitor patient safety.

Q3: Are MME conversions exact?
A: While MME provides a standardized comparison, individual patient factors like metabolism, tolerance, and genetics can affect actual opioid effects.

Q4: Should MME be used for all opioids?
A: MME is primarily used for common prescription opioids. It may not be accurate for all opioid medications, especially newer synthetic opioids.

Q5: How often should MME be calculated?
A: MME should be calculated whenever opioid therapy is initiated, when doses are changed, and during regular medication reviews.