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Dilaudid
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Dilaudid

Generic name:hydromorphone (oral) [ HYE-droe-MOR-fone ]
Brand names: Dilaudid, Exalgo, Hydrostat IR
Drug class:Narcotic analgesics

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Nov 18, 2021.

What is Dilaudid?

Dilaudid 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.

Warnings

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.

Dilaudid may be habit-forming, even at regular doses. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Never share the medicine with another person. MISUSE OF NARCOTIC PAIN MEDICATION CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Dilaudid may cause life-threatening addiction and withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother has taken this medicine during pregnancy.

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur when alcohol is combined with hydromorphone.

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 ...