Hydromorphone Overview

What is Hydromorphone?

Hydromorphone is now being used more often in medicine as an alternative to morphine in situations that require chronic pain management. This drug is a regulated opioid and prevents moderate to severe pain without the intense side effects that are normally associated with morphine-type drugs. Although there is no maximum dose in chronic pain patients, the natural tolerance that develops during opiate use will cause addiction. When overused or used without a prescription, hydromorphone can be deadly, causing an overdose that may end in seizures, cardiac arrest, coma and death.

How is Hydromorphone Administered?

Hydromorphone should always be handled with extreme care. Hydromorphone tablets are normally taken once daily, however, your doctor will determine your dose based upon your condition. Always follow your physicians order when taking this drug. Your pharmacist will be able to answer any questions pertaining to your dosage when you receive your prescription and will provide a Patient Information Leaflet just like with any prescription medication. Hydromorphone tablets should not be chewed, crushed, broken or dissolved before ingestion as this may cause serious breathing difficulties. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions when using hydromorphone together with other prescription drugs or nonprescription pain relievers, as the chemical reactions between them can cause problems.

What Drug Interactions Should I Avoid When Taking Hydromorphone?

Do not take hydromorphone directly after removing a narcotic patch; your body may need an 18-hour interval between removing the patch and starting your hydromorphone prescription. Taking other drugs at the same time as hydromorphone may cause an adverse affect. Before taking hydromorphone tell your doctor if you are using buprenorphine, pentazocine, butorphanol or nalbuphine. Naltrexone should not be administered if you are using hydromorphone. If you are taking medication to help you sleep, deal with depression or anxiety, or an antihistamine, hydromorphone may make you even drowsier. Make sure to tell your physician if you are taking medication to lower your blood pressure, MAO inhibitors or other narcotic pain relievers.

What are the Side Effects of Hydromorphone?

The most common side effects reported during hydromorphone use include sweating, vomiting, constipation, nausea, lightheadedness, sedation and dizziness. If taken with alcohol, these effects could become increased. Tell your doctor if any side effects that you experience do not fade as you adjust to the medication or if they should become worse. If you start to have breathing difficulties, you should notify your physician immediately. An allergic reaction to this medication is highly unlikely; however, get medical help if you develop swelling, itching or a rash.

What Else Should I Know When Taking Hydromorphone?

Patients who have never used an opioid drug should not take hydromorphone. If you are unsure if you are opioid tolerant, tell your doctor to determine if this drug should be administered to you. Some people with certain medical conditions could have a serious adverse reaction to hydromorphone and will need to discuss these issues before using this medication. The medical conditions include but are not limited to a history of seizures, respiratory depression, head injury, heart problems, kidney or liver disease, lung diseases, chronic depression, disease of the pancreas, or abdominal problems. Always disclose all of your past medical conditions to your doctor.

If you miss a dose of your hydromorphone, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not take two doses at the same time, otherwise known as "doubling up" on your dose. Hydromorphone is a drug of abuse and should not be taken by anyone other than the person for whom it is prescribed. Shallow breathing and sleepiness could be more dramatic in patients who are elderly. Consult your doctor before you stop using this drug since you might experience withdrawal symptoms if you have been taking it for an extended period of time or in large amounts. Women who are pregnant and use this drug should be advised that the infant may struggle through withdrawal symptoms after birth and may be required to remain in the hospital for an extended period for observation.

How Does Meditox Treat Hydromorphone Addiction?

Meditox can help you break your hydromorphone addiction by supplying you with a prescription for buprenorphine in the form of Suboxone and Subutex through an outpatient treatment program that provides you with the ongoing support of qualified doctors and nurses. We know that patients are more successful when given options for treatment that will fit within the boundaries of their lifestyle. Our program was designed for people with busy lives, for those who prefer an outpatient addiction treatment that is affordable and convenient. Contact our Meditox calling center today and find out how we can help you break your addiction to hydromorphone.

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: Hydromorphone Information
Drugs.com: Hydromorphone Information

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