MS Contin is a brand of a time-released formulation of morphine sulfate, usually taken every twelve hours for chronic pain. MS Contin is a trademark of Purdue Pharma.
In the United States, MS Contin is available in tablet and liquid formulas in doses of 15mg, 20mg, 30mg, 60mg, 100mg and 200mg. In Australia, MS Contin tablets are available in doses of 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg, 60mg, 100mg and 200mg, and as a suspension, in doses of 20mg, 30mg, 60mg, 100mg and 200mg. It is typically prescribed in cases of severe pain where prolonged opioid therapy is indicated.
MS Contin is a DEA Schedule II substance in the United States, and is a Schedule 8 (controlled) drug in Australia.
Alternative sustained release morphine sulfate formulations made and marketed by other pharmaceutical companies include King Pharmaceuticals' Avinza and Actavis Pharmaceuticals' Kadian. Kadian is available in various strengths. There has been some concern regarding the issue that some capsules contain pellets (made by the process of extrusion and Spheronization (a trademark of Caleva Process Solutions) while others contain powder. There is no difference in efficacy between the powder and pellet forms.