Why it is Prescribed
Hydromorphone is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It also may be used to decrease coughing.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How it Works
Hydromorphone comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It also comes as a rectal suppository. The oral forms usually are taken every 4-6 hours as needed. The suppository usually is used every 6-8 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Shake the liquid well before measuring a dose. Take hydromorphone exactly as directed. Hydromorphone can be habit-forming. ...
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Why it is Prescribed
Hydromorphone is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It also may be used to decrease coughing.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How it Works
Hydromorphone comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It also comes as a rectal suppository. The oral forms usually are taken every 4-6 hours as needed. The suppository usually is used every 6-8 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Shake the liquid well before measuring a dose. Take hydromorphone exactly as directed. Hydromorphone can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.
To insert a hydromorphone suppository rectally, follow these steps:
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Overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Precautions
Before taking hydromorphone,
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to hydromorphone, aspirin, sulfites, tartrazine (yellow dye), or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other pain relievers; antidepressants; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism, lung or thyroid disease, heart disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary problems.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking hydromorphone, call your doctor.
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Possible Side Effects
Hydromorphone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
dizziness
lightheadedness
drowsiness
upset stomach
vomiting
constipation
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Special Dietary Concerns
Hydromorphone may cause an upset stomach. Take hydromorphone with food or milk.
Storage Conditions
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.