Dilaudid Coupon & Discounts

Dilaudid Information:

• What

What is Dilaudid?

Each 8mg Dilaudid pill contains 8mg hydromorphone hydrochloride, lactose anhydrous and magnesium stearate, and may contain traces of sodium metabisulfite. Dilaudid is the common brand name for the chemical makeup of hydromorphone hydrochloride, which is in a group of drugs called opioids, or narcotic pain relievers, and is similar to morphine. Dilaudid pain medication is effective in treating moderate to severe pain, and its extended-release form is particularly effective for patients who require 24-hour pain relief. Dilaudid medicine is not intended for temporary pain relief, such as for post-surgery patients, and is only available by prescription from your doctor.  The precise mode of analgesic action of opioid analgesics is unknown; however, they are believed to be effective by combining with specific CNS opiate receptors. 

• How

How do I take Dilaudid?

It is important to take the Dilaudid drug precisely as directed by your doctor. Dilaudid pills are taken by mouth, with or without food. Should nausea occur, you may find relief by taking this medication with food or you may try lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible. Your specific dosage is based on your doctor’s assessment of your medical condition and needs. Do not increase your dose, take Dilaudid more frequently than prescribed, or take it longer than prescribed. For ongoing pain, such as that which accompanies many cancer treatments, your doctor may direct you to take long-acting narcotic medicines. Combination medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may also be prescribed along with this medication. You should discuss any questions you have on taking Dilaudid pain medication or taking Dilaudid in combination with other medications with your pharmacist or health care provider. Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction. Tell your doctor if your pain persists or worsens.

• Precautions

Before taking Dilaudid, tell your doctor if:

• You are allergic to hydromorphone or if you have any other allergies.
• You have a medical history of brain disorders, such as head injuries, tumors, or seizures.
• You have breathing problems, such as asthma, sleep apnea, or COPD.
• You have kidney or liver disease.
• You have mental or mood disorders, such as confusion or depression.
• You have a personal or family history of regular use or abuse of drugs or alcohol.
• You have stomach or intestinal problems, such as blockage, constipation, diarrhea, paralytic ileus, difficulty urinating, gallbladder disease or disease of the pancreas.
• You are taking any other prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal products.
• You are diabetic or have any other condition which requires you to limit or avoid sugar in your diet.
• You are pregnant or are trying to become pregnant.
• You are breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed.
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking Dilaudid?

If, after taking the dilaudid drug, you experience any of the following side effects, you should notify your doctor or pharmacist: nausea, vomiting, constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, or sweating. Some of these conditions, if experienced, may lessen after your body adjusts to taking dilaudid. You may be able to prevent constipation by eating a diet rich in fiber and by drinking plenty of water and exercising. If you still experience constipation, your pharmacist may be able to assist you in selecting a laxative.

More serious side effects are unlikely but should be reported to your doctor immediately should they occur: mental or mood changes, such as agitation, confusion or hallucinations, severe stomach or abdominal pain, or difficulty urinating.

If the patient experiences fainting, seizures, slow or shallow breathing, unusual drowsiness or difficulty waking up, immediate medical attention should be provided.  A rare but serious allergic reaction can include symptoms such as rash, itching or swelling around the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Such symptoms should be addressed by immediately contacting the prescribing doctor or calling 911.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of Dilaudid?

The painkiller dilaudid is often prescribed on an as-needed basis. If you are not on a specific dosing schedule, simply take the next dose when needed. If you are on a specific dosing schedule and miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if you are near the time for your next dose. Do not take extra dilaudid to make up for the missed dose.

• Storage

How do I store Dilaudid?

Dilaudid should be stored in a closed container at room temperature. Do not store this medicine in your bathroom medicine cabinet. Avoid excessive moisture, excessive heat, or excessive cold when storing this medicine and always keep it out of the reach of children. You should discuss with your pharmacist or medical provider the best method for disposing unused or expired medication.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on Dilaudid?

Symptoms of dilaudid overdose include decreased awareness or responsiveness, an increased sensitivity of the eyes to light, no muscle tone or movement, excessive sleepiness or unusual drowsiness, slow breathing, slow heartbeat, or loss of consciousness. If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control or emergency room immediately. In the U.S., residents can call 911 or their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents can call their provincial poison control centers.

 

• Additional Info

Warnings

Potential dangerous effects of taking dilaudid pills include respiratory depression and apnea, circulatory depression, respiratory arrest, shock and cardiac arrest.

Taking opioid analgesics may result in psychological and physical addiction. Physical dependence results in withdrawal symptoms in patients who abruptly stop taking Dilaudid. Physical dependence does not typically occur to a clinically significant degree until after several weeks of use but may occur with as little as one week of continued usage. 

Brand Names

Dilaudid is the brand name for the generic drug, hydromorphone. Other brand names include Dilaudid-5, Exalgo, and Palladone.  To reduce the high Dilaudid retail price, take advantage of our free dilaudid coupons or discount card to save up to 86% at your local pharmacy.