Description

What is Dilaudid (Hydromorphone) 8 mg

Dilaudid (Hydromorphone) 8 mg is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic. Dilaudid is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Dilaudid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information

You should not take Dilaudid if you have severe breathing problems, or a blockage in your stomach or intestines. Dilaudid can slow or stop your breathing, especially when you start using this medicine or whenever your dose is changed. Never use Dilaudid in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Do not crush, break, or open an extended-release pill. Swallow it whole to avoid exposure to a potentially fatal dose.

Before using Dilaudid

You should not take Dilaudid if you have ever had an allergic reaction to hydromorphone or other narcotic medicines, or if you have:

-breathing problems, sleep apnea;
-a blockage in your stomach or intestines; or
-a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus.

Do not use Dilaudid if you have used a MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

Use

Take Dilaudid exactly as prescribed. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Dilaudid can slow or stop your breathing, especially when you start using this medicine or whenever your dose is changed. Never use Dilaudid in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

Side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to Dilaudid: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Like other narcotic medicines, hydromorphone can slow your breathing. Death may occur if breathing becomes too weak.

Further information

Keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use it only for the indication prescribed.