Dilaudid Overview

What is Dilaudid?

One of the stronger opioid painkillers, Dilaudid is a true narcotic and is used to relieve dry, persistent cough in patients suffering from respiratory illnesses. Health risks are associated with use and should be discussed with your physician before you take Dilaudid. With extended use or in large quantities, Dilaudid is highly addictive. Abrupt stoppage of this drug could result in painful withdrawal symptoms. Alternatively, taking more of the drug than prescribed may cause a life threatening overdose. If you suspect that you or someone you are with is suffering from a Dilaudid overdose, call 911 or poison control immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include cold and clammy skin, slow pulse, dry mouth, slow breathing and a loss of consciousness.

How is Dilaudid Administered?

Dilaudid is provided to patients in either a liquid or tablet form. When ingesting the liquid, normal dosing is one-half to two teaspoonfuls every three to six hours. If you are using Dilaudid 8 milligram tablets, it is usually prescribed to be taken every four to six hours. However, your doctor may need to adjust your dose when considering your response to pain therapy or sensitivity to the ingredients in the drug. Your dose may be slowly increased over time to overcome the natural tolerance that builds up during regular use of all opiate prescription painkillers. Dilaudid works best when you take it with food or a beverage.

What Drug Interactions Should I Avoid When Taking Dilaudid?

Your physician should know if you are currently taking CNS depressants or other narcotics. Alcohol consumption should also be restricted since combined use with Dilaudid may cause respiratory depression. Tell your doctor about all of the medications that you are taking, including nonprescription medication, herbal supplements, vitamins and dietary aids.

What are the Side Effects of Dilaudid?

Until your body adjusts to Dilaudid, you may experience side effects such as loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, upset stomach, headache, drowsiness or constipation. In the event that dizziness or lightheadedness becomes an issue, getting up slowly may minimize this effect. Your pharmacist or doctor should be notified if any of your side effects become increasingly troublesome or problematic. More severe symptoms may also occur, so it's important that you discuss the possibility of additional side effects with your healthcare professional if it concerns you.

What Else Should I Know When Taking Dilaudid?

Dilaudid will be more effective at making your cough productive if you take each dose with plenty of water. Direct communication with your doctor will help determine if any of your past medical conditions will affect your current pain therapy. For women who are breastfeeding, small amounts of Dilaudid will pass into your milk supply. If you fail to take your medication at the correct time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is closer to your next scheduled dose, simply skip your missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

How Does Meditox Treat Dilaudid Addiction?

At each of our private Meditox clinics, we provide an effective and supervised outpatient Dilaudid addiction treatment for those who need an affordable, effective drug addiction treatment that won't cause further stress in their family and career lives. Our program is perfect for individuals who do not want to invest large amounts of time and money in a treatment program but who do want proven results. All of our doctors hold DEA identification numbers which qualify them to prescribe a unique drug called buprenorphine. Studies have shown that with this medication, opiate withdrawal symptoms are practically eliminated and the time spent in opiate detox is significantly shorter than other detox options.

If you are ready to take control of your life and break your Dilaudid addiction, call Meditox today and speak to one of our intake counselors to learn more.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

Additional Resources

Wikipedia: Dilaudid Information
RxList.com: Dilaudid Information

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