Medically Reviewed by Dr P. E. Pancoast, MD
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Hydromorphone hydrochloride is a prescription opioid pain medication that relieves severe pain by blocking pain signals in the central nervous system (CNS).1
Hydromorphone is available in tablet, oral liquid, and injection form. Brand names for hydromorphone include Dilaudid and Exalgo.
Hydromorphone is more potent than morphine and requires specialist medical care to prescribe. This also makes hydromorphone highly addictive, so you should always follow the directions on the prescription label.
Like other drugs, hydromorphone is a prescription opioid pain medication with several side effects. Common side effects of hydromorphone include the following:2
While the side effects listed above are not unusual, you should contact emergency services as quickly as possible under the following circumstances:
Besides the severe reactions above, you should avoid combining hydromorphone and alcohol to prevent adverse drug reactions.
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You should avoid combining Dilaudid and alcohol, as the results can be fatal. Many people take the two substances together, often producing a euphoric high. However, people who are tolerant of both may require higher doses to achieve the same high.
If you’re taking a long-acting form of Dilaudid, mixing alcohol can cause a rapid release of the drug, increasing blood levels to a lethal dose.3
Mixing Dilaudid and alcohol often leads to short and long-term neurological and psychological consequences. This includes severe side effects to potential overdosing.
Listed below are the possible effects of mixing hydromorphone and alcohol:
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The most effective way to avoid adverse effects from hydromorphone and alcohol is to abstain from drinking when you have taken (or will be taking) hydromorphone within 24 hours.
Mixing Dilaudid and alcohol leads to severe consequences to the central nervous system and occasionally leads to death, so taking precautions is essential.
Below are a few tips for avoiding serious side effects when taking prescription painkillers with alcohol.
Let your healthcare provider know if:
Concurrent opioid and alcohol abuse can lead to tolerance, which means you’ll require more of the same substances to feel pain relief.4 People misusing Dilaudid may continue taking it in higher doses, leading to physical dependence and potential hydromorphone overdose.
Taking multiple narcotic medications can significantly increase side effects. To avoid drug interactions, you should always disclose a list of the medications and prescription drugs you use and at what dosages.
By sharing your medical history, your doctor will ensure that your treatment will avoid mixing Dilaudid with other drugs and substances that may compromise your health.
If you have a history of opioid abuse or develop addictive behaviors during the course of your medication, seek addiction treatment immediately.
Withdrawal symptoms from Dilaudid and alcohol dependence are often severe, requiring an immediate detox. Typical withdrawal symptoms last up to 72 hours and begin between 4 and 8 hours.5 These symptoms might include the following:
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Mixing Dilaudid and alcohol has dangerous side effects, potentially leading to death. If you consume alcohol while taking Dilaudid, here’s what you should do:
Yes, you can overdose on hydromorphone and alcohol, especially if the dose taken leads to respiratory depression and shallow breathing.6
Opioid painkillers like Dilaudid can mask the usual signs of alcohol intoxication, potentially leading a person to consume more alcohol than usual. You may already be overdosing without knowing you’ve exceeded your limit.
When you’re prescribed Dilaudid, special precautions to follow include:
You can stay safe on a Dilaudid prescription by doing the following:
Keep note of your local area’s emergency responders to contact if you’re experiencing severe side effects from Dilaudid use.
Hydromorphone is an opioid pain reliever that provides significant pain relief after traumatic physical injuries or medical procedures. While on this medication, it’s crucial to avoid alcohol and substances not prescribed by your healthcare provider due to its adverse effects.
If you or someone you know has accidentally combined hydromorphone and alcohol or suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Remember, engaging in drug abuse can put patients at risk of dependence and overdose. If you struggle with drug and alcohol dependence, seeking the appropriate help and support from community members is the first step in a fulfilling journey toward sobriety.
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