Dilaudid Abuse and Addiction
February 6, 2010 by Summit Malibu
Filed under Prescription Drug Addiction and Abuse
Dilaudid (hydromorphone) is a potent analgesic drug of the opioid class. It is a semi-synthetic derivative of morphine. It is both medically an opioid analgesic and legally a narcotic. Dilaudid inhibits ascending pain pathways in Central Nervous System. It also increases the pain threshold and alters pain perception.
Like all opioids, Dilaudid is highly addictive and is listed as a Schedule II drug in the United States.
Hydromorphone is prescribed medically as an alternative to morphine for analgesia, and as a second- or third-line narcotic antitussive (cough suppressant) for severe cases. It is generally considered the strongest of the antitussive drugs.
Dilaudid was developed when heroin was removed from clinical use in most of the world and banned outright in many countries.
Dilaudid is often called “drug store heroin” on the streets. While Dilaudid use may sometimes be prescribed for a legitimate ailment, it is more often purchased illegally in its prescription form. Because of its similarity to street heroin and other powerful opiates, short term abuse can lead to complete dependence in just a few days of continuous use.
Dilaudid abusers often turn to street drugs such as heroin when their preferred drug is no longer available.
Adverse effects of Dilaudid are similar to those of other opioid analgesics, such as morphine. Major hazards include respiratory depression and circulatory depression. Some more common side effects include light-headedness, dizziness, sedation, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and sweating.
Overdoses are rare in tolerant individuals, but when they do occur they can lead to complete circulatory system collapse. The effects of overdose are increased if the medication is taken with alcohol or benzodiazepines.
The euphoria produced by Dilaudid that is associated with relief from pain can lead to addictive reward-seeking behavior.
Withdrawal from Dilaudid is brief but intense. The symptoms are similar to morphine and heroin withdrawal, but they are compressed into a spike which will peak in 14 to 21 hours and resolve in 36 to 72 hours.
Withdrawal symptoms from Dilaudid can occur four to five hours after the last dose and usually last 7 to 10 days.
To avoid severe withdrawal, Dilaudid abusers should taper down slowly under a knowledgeable physician’s care, or participate in a medically supervised detoxification. In cases of long term use, an in patient detox in a hospital or medical supervised setting is highly recommended.
