Universal Ramblings

What is hydromorphone?

Hydromorphone is in a group of drugs called narcotic pain relievers, also called opioids. It is similar to morphine.
Hydromorphone is used to treat moderate to severe pain. The extended-release form of this medication is for around-the-clock treatment of pain. Hydromorphone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Why would this drug be used?

Hydromorphone is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

How does this drug work?

Hydromorphone is an opioid pain reliever, similar to morphine. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain and central nervous system (CNS), reducing the perception of pain as well as the emotional response to pain.

What are the possible side effects of hydromorphone?

• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

* shallow breathing, slow heartbeat;
* seizure (convulsions);
* cold, clammy skin;
* confusion;
* severe weakness or dizziness; or
* feeling light-headed, fainting.

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

* nausea, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite;
* warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin;
* dizziness, headache;
* dry mouth;
* sweating; or
* itching.

This list is not complete and other side effects may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

FDA approval
Yes – first approved in 1984.

How is this drug taken or given?
Hydromorphone can be given by mouth as a pill, rectal suppository, or a liquid. It can also be given as an injection under the skin or in a vein as a short infusion or a continuous infusion with extra medicine that you can take when needed (patient controlled analgesia or PCA). The dose will depend on how well the medicine controls your pain.

The pill and liquid should be taken with a full glass of water, with or without food. You should shake the liquid before measuring the dose.

When taking a suppository, open the package and then dip the tip in water. If you are right-handed, lie down on your left side, bring your knees up near your chest, and slowly insert the suppository in your rectum about an inch. You should stay in this position for about 15 minutes, then get up and wash your hands well.

Store the medicine in a tightly closed container away from heat and moisture and out of the reach of children, pets, and others. Take this drug exactly as directed by your doctor, or as specified by the drug label. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or nurse to explain them to you.