Hydromorphone, marketed as Dilaudid, is an opioid analgesic prescribed to alleviate severe pain by intercepting pain signals within the brain. Administered orally in tablet form, it should be ingested with water as directed to achieve optimal therapeutic effects. Read on to learn more about this prescription medication and discover how to connect with compassionate and effective opioid addiction treatment.
Hydromorphone Side Effects
Common side effects of hydromorphone include:
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Flushing
- Euphoria
- Dry mouth
- Itching
If these effects are mild, they may diminish within a few days. Consult your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.
Serious adverse effects of hydromorphone include:
- Heart problems: Fast or slow heart rate, chest pain
- Eye or vision changes: Difficulty seeing, blurry vision, small pupils
- Stomach problems: Constipation, stomach pain, bowel blockage
- Nervous system and muscle problems: Headache, tremors, unusual eye movements
- Mood or behavior changes: Agitation, anxiety, depression, hallucinations
- Blood pressure changes: Flushing, high or low blood pressure
- Adrenal insufficiency: Persistent tiredness, muscle weakness, abdominal pain
- Androgen deficiency: Fatigue, sleep issues, decreased energy, extreme drowsiness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects hydromorphone or if you feel that your symptoms are life-threatening.
What Is Hydromorphone Used for?
Hydromorphone is an opioid analgesic that works similarly to other medications in this category. Its mechanism of action involves interacting with MORs (mu opioid receptors) in the brain, although the precise method by which it alleviates pain remains not fully understood.
The oral tablet form of hydromorphone is prescribed to address severe pain unresponsive to other treatments. Its extended-release variant is specifically tailored for people who need around-the-clock pain management.
This medication is sometimes incorporated into combination therapy alongside other drugs.
Is Hydromorphone Addictive?
Like all Schedule II controlled substances, hydromorphone can he highly addictive. While it can effectively manage severe pain when used as prescribed, misuse or prolonged use can lead to dependence and addiction.
Factors contributing to the addictive nature of hydromorphone include its ability to produce feelings of euphoria and its impact on the brain’s reward system. Regular use leads to the development of tolerance, prompting the need for higher doses to achieve the same pain-relieving effects, increasing the risk of addiction.
Use hydromorphone exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional and avoid altering dosage or frequency of doses without medical guidance. If you or someone you care about is struggling with hydromorphone addiction, seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist for effective management and recovery.
Signs of Hydromorphone Addiction
Identifying potential signs of hydromorphone addiction involves recognizing behavioral and physical changes indicative of substance misuse. While addiction can manifest differently from person to person, common signs include:
- Craving hydromorphone: Experiencing intense urges or desires to use hydromorphone, often leading to compulsive drug-seeking behaviors.
- Difficulty controlling use: Struggling to regulate hydromorphone intake despite awareness of its negative consequences, such as health risks or social impairment.
- Social impairment: Significant disruptions in social interactions and relationships due to hydromorphone use, including withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities and withdrawal from social circles.
- Risky use: Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence of hydromorphone despite potential harm to self or others.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritizing hydromorphone use over personal or professional obligations, leading to neglect and deterioration in these areas.
- Tolerance: Developing tolerance to hydromorphone’s effects, meaning that increased doses or more frequent doses are required to achieve the desired effects or maintain pain relief.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation or reduction of hydromorphone use – nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, or insomnia, for example.
- Loss of control: Inability to control hydromorphone use, often resulting in unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit.
- Continued use despite adverse outcomes: Persisting in hydromorphone use despite awareness of its negative impact on physical health, mental well-being, or personal relationships.
- Preoccupation with use: Spending significant time and effort obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of hydromorphone, often at the expense of other activities and responsibilities.
- Interference with life goals: Hydromorphone use interfering with long-term life goals, aspirations, and personal development, stunting progress and fulfillment in various areas of life.
Recognizing these signs early on can streamline timely intervention and support for those struggling with hydromorphone addiction, promoting better outcomes and improved quality of life. If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, seek professional help.
Get Treatment for Hydromorphone Addiction at Ohio Recovery Centers
At Ohio Recovery Centers, we treat prescription drug addiction in an outpatient setting. This modality enables you to fulfill your everyday obligations while participating in weekday therapy sessions at our facility in Cincinnati, OH.
Streamline the intensity of opioid withdrawal by choosing medical detoxification at Ohio Recovery Centers. Access medications and continuous care to mitigate the discomfort and complications associated with hydromorphone withdrawal.
During ongoing treatment, you can access an individualized blend of therapies that blend medications, behavioral interventions, and holistic treatments for a whole-body approach to recovery from hydromorphone addiction. All of our treatment programs also incorporate comprehensive aftercare planning.
Call 877-679-2132 for effective and evidence-based opioid addiction treatment.
