Dilaudid (hydromorphone) is a medication used to manage pain. According to Drugs.com, it is a narcotic pain reliever that provides continuous relief. In some cases, Dilaudid can also help decrease coughing. It is available as a tablet or an injection. You doctor will adjust the dosage in accordance with the severity of your pain.
Routine Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, you may develop dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting when taking this drug. Dilaudid can also cause dry mouth, pruritus (itching) and flushing of your skin. MedlinePlus says that Dilaudid can cause stomach pain, constipation, trouble urinating and a skin rash. Notify your doctor if these side effects remain for at least three days. She may adjust your dosage.
Dangerous Side Effects
Drugs.com says that Dilaudid can cause such serious side effects as bradycardia (a slow heartbeat), convulsions, trouble breathing and confusion. It may cause weakness and clammy or cold skin. The National Library of Medicine says that Dilaudid may, at its most severe, cause cardiac arrest (condition in which your heart suddenly stops beating), respiratory arrest (cessation of breathing) and shock (a condition in which your body does not supply adequate amounts of blood to your organs).
Additional Side Effects
Dilaudid can affect your brain and spinal cord and cause tremors, agitation, nervousness, abnormal dreams, muscle stiffness and nystagmus (rapid eye movements), says the National Library of Medicine. It can also cause hallucinations, trouble seeing and increased intracranial (within your skull) pressure. Other side effects of Dilaudid use include hypotension (low blood pressure), hypertension (high blood pressure), changes in your sense of taste and urinary retention.
Other Concerns
Avoid Dilaudid if you are allergic to it. Manifestations of an allergy include trouble breathing, skin welts and facial, lip or tongue swelling. If you experience these symptoms, call 911.
You should not take Dilaudid if you have a history of substance abuse. You may become mentally and physically addicted to it.
Do not use Dilaudid if you have a head injury or increased intracranial (skull) pressure. This may lead to respiratory depression.
The National Library of Medicine recommends you avoid combining Dilaudid with tranquilizers, phenothiazines, alcohol or sedatives, and hypnotic drugs. You can develop trouble breathing, low blood pressure, extreme drowsiness and even a coma.
Also, small amounts of Dilaudid can pass into breast milk. Avoid using it while breastfeeding or switch to formula-feeding. Dilaudid can pass the placental barrier, but it is not known whether it has any harmful effects on your baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
Member Comments