Hydromorphone

Hydromorphone (Dilaudid®) is marketed in tablets (2, 4, and 8 mg), rectal Suppositories, oral solutions, and injectable formulations. Its analgesic potency is from two to eight times that of morphine, but it is shorter acting and produces more sedation than morphine. Much sought after by narcotic addicts, hydromorphone is usually obtained by the abuser through fraudulent prescriptions or theft. The tablets are often dissolved and injected as a substitute for heroin.

Hydromorphone’s effects are markedly similar to morphine, except the euphoria is closer to codeine. Nausea and vomiting is quite rare, and sedation is practically non-existent. Hydromorphone's abuse potential comes from the fact that its euphoric intravenous rush is very similar to heroin's. Hydromorphone is one of the most prescribed opioids in the relief of pain for the terminally ill due to its minimal side effects and high potency.

Generally, when given intravenously, Dialudid’s analgesic action is apparent within 15 minutes and remains in effect for more than 5 hours. The onset of action of oral hydromorphone is somewhat slower, with measurable analgesia occurring within 30 minutes.

Street Names

Dust, Juice, Smack, D, Footballs

Short-Term Effects

Psychic dependence is unlikely when hydromorphone is used for a short period of time. Physical dependence is when continued use of the drug is needed to avoid withdrawal symptoms. This problem only becomes relevant after several (2 weeks to 2 months) of continued narcotic use. When taken as directed, Dilaudid can produce physical dependence in a few weeks time.

Long-Term Effects

Dilaudid has a moderately high dependency potential, with addiction or dependence occurring when used for longer than a few weeks, or at high doses. People who have been dependent on alcohol or other drugs in the past generally have a greater chance of becoming addicted to Dilaudid.

Psychic dependence, physical dependence, and tolerance may develop upon repeated administration of hydromorphone.

Tolerance is when ever increasing doses are required to produce the same degree of analgesia. Tolerance is initially manifested by a decreased duration of analgesic effect, followed by decreases in the intensity of analgesia. Tolerance develops over days, weeks, or months. The rate of tolerance varies among patients.

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