Dilaudid Addiction

Dilaudid ®

Dilaudid is a semi-synthetic narcotic analgesic used for moderate to severe pain relief:

• Dilaudid is a derivative of morphine.
• Known generically as hydromorphone (shortened from dihydromorphinone hydrochloride).
• A strong centrally-acting analgesic drug in the opiate class.
• Indicated for moderate to severe pain.
• Dilaudid is a semi-synthetic drug and both an opiate and a true narcotic.
• A second- or third-line narcotic antitussive (cough suppressant).
• Accidental Dilaudid administration when dispensed, due to confusion with Morphine, has led to several deaths.
• Dilaudid is a medical alternative to morphine.
• Dilaudid affects elderly patients more acutely.
• Available in instant release—but not sustained-release--oral tablet formulation.
• Can be habit forming, and must be taken according to instructions under doctor’s orders.
• Dilaudid can lead to addiction and pleasure-seeking behavior when acting upon reward centers in the brain.
• Dilaudid tends to multiply the sedative effect of alcohol and other painkillers, and then aggravate the respiratory system.
• Dilaudid’s quick onset makes it popular in operating blocks of hospitals.
• Due to higher lipid solubility, Dilaudid can cross the blood-brain barrier more rapidly than other narcotics to act.
• Dilaudid’s contraindications include, primarily, asthma and breathing disorders.
• Dilaudid penetrates the central nervous system completely.
• From 1998 to 2006, manufacture of Dilaudid has increased over 400% and prescriptions by over 200%(i).
• Dilaudid may also be found in compounds (rare), injections, suppositories, and peach cough syrup.
• Gaining popularity for chronic pain management.
• Dilaudid is potentially habit-forming.
• Impairs the ability to operate hazardous machinery or vehicles.
• Likely potential to cause physical or psychological dependence, when used frequently.
• Listed under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act of 1970 as a Schedule II controlled narcotic.
• Dilaudid is listed in most countries similarly and in the international Single Convention On Narcotic Drugs.
• Dilaudid may cause respiratory illness in newborns when used during pregnancy.
• One of the most potent drugs in its class.
• Patients report Dilaudid’s pain relief action superior to morphine.
• Popular substitute for heroin and morphine.
• Possible contraindications for patients with: asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other respiratory disorders.
• Dilaudid produces severe withdrawal symptoms with abrupt discontinuation after chronic use.
• Some, but not all, symptoms of Dilaudid overdose: pinpoint pupils, vomiting, stupor, weak pulse, coma, or slow shallow breathing.
• Provokes severe and sometimes fatal heart and breathing problems.
• Tolerance develops with repeated administration.
• Use during pregnancy or breast-feeding can cause harm to a newborn, and is disallowed during labor and delivery.
• Use with sedatives, antidepressants, or alcoholic beverages can increase risk of adverse side effects, unconsciousness, and respiratory arrest.
• Dilaudid indicated to relieve severe, painful dry coughing.
• Worsening symptoms that require medical attention include: short, slowed or shallow breathing or irregular pulse and heartbeat.
• Prolonged dosage other than prescribed can lead to drug dependency.
• Among 6.4 million Americans using prescriptions for non-medical purposes, more than 73% abused pain relievers like Dilaudid (2006, National Household Survey).

Learn more about Dilaudid addiction and the Waismann Method of Rapid Detoxification.