Hi Linda, There are many meds that can be used to treat end-stage COPD. But when morphine is given, the purpose is usually to ease the person into death, not really to treat their breathing difficulties, per se.

I don't know if that's the case for your mom, though. Morphine, as you probably know, is a pain killer and sedative. There are many other meds in this class, but morphine is the one most commonly used for terminal patients, I believe.

The best person to ask this question of is your mother's doctor, who is familiar with your mother's medical condition and history, and also knowledgeable about the full gamut of treatments that are appropriate given her current status.

Hope this helps,

Kathi