Dilaudid®

Dilaudid® is the brand name for 'hydromorphone,' a Schedule II prescription-only narcotic that has been around since the 1920's. Used as an analgesic (painkiller) and antitussive (cough suppressant), Dilaudid® is approximately six to eight times as strong as morphine, and it can be administered by the following routes:

• Buccal (the medicine is placed inside the cheek)
• Intramuscular
• Intranasal
• Intravenous
• Oral
• Rectal
• Subcutaneous (under the skin)
• Sublingual (under the tongue)
• Transdermal
• Transmucosal

Serious Side Effects of Dilaudid®

There are very serious potential side effects that accompany the use of Dilaudid®. Any physician who prescribes this drug should be sure to warn the patient of the possibility of:

• Respiratory depression — this is perhaps the most serious, life-threatening side effect; when the respiratory system is shutting down, it can be fatal
• Circulatory depression — the blood slows and may stop
• Light-headedness
• Dizziness
• Sedation
• Itching
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sweating

Dilaudid® Abuse and Addiction

Schedule II drugs such as Dilaudid® are those that have a high potential for abuse, including abuse that leads to severe psychological and/or physical dependence. Many individuals prescribed Dilaudid® for acute or chronic pain, or for a dry cough, have become addicted to this opiate.

Dependence on Dilaudid®

In addition, the human body builds up a tolerance for hydromorphone. This is especially problematic for people who are treated with this drug for a long period of time, usually for chronic pain. Stopping Dilaudid® is another problem; the withdrawal symptoms can be awful and very long-lasting. The symptoms of withdrawal include:

• Anxiety
• Body cramps
• Cold sweats
• Constant shaking
• Cravings
• Depression
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Muscle pain
• Vomiting

Dilaudid® and Pregnancy

The warning label states that taking Dilaudid® during the first two months of pregnancy may slightly increase the risk for birth defects. Women who are pregnant or who are planning a pregnancy should talk to their doctors about the possible risks of birth defects associated with this medication.

Learn More about Dilaudid®'s Risks

The Flood Law Group represents individuals and families who have been harmed by prescription medications. Drug manufacturers and physicians have a duty to provide safe treatment, and when innocent patients are harmed by a prescribed drug, they may be eligible for financial compensation. To learn more, contact the drug attorneys at Flood Law Group today.