If you need help with Dilaudid detox, you are not alone. Misuse of prescription medicines is a growing epidemic. Get the help you need today by calling our 24 Hour Toll-Free Addiction Helpline at (888) 446-5952 to talk with a caring counselor about your Dilaudid treatment options.
Nearly one million individuals aged 12 and older have taken the opioid painkiller Dilaudid for nonmedical purposes in their lifetime, according to the most recent data presented in The National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
In addition, the largest percentage of drug-related admissions to detox and treatment facilities is due to opiates — both heroin and opioid prescription medications such as Dilaudid — as reported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This should not be a surprise considering that pain medications are powerful drugs with a propensity for abuse, and the number of prescriptions dispensed has increased ten-fold over the past decade.
So what is Dilaudid, and why does it have the potential to be dangerous and addictive, which may require Dilaudid detox and treatment?
What is Dilaudid (Hydromorphone)?
Dilaudid is the name brand of a drug called hydromorphone. It is a strong analgesic belonging to the opioid class of drugs and a derivative of morphine. Doctors prescribe Dilaudid to treat moderate to severe pain after surgery or for short-term pain relief. This pain medication is typically taken orally in tablet or liquid form, but sometimes it is injected.
Dilaudid and other generic hydromorphone pain medications are safe and effective when used under a doctor’s care and as intended. However, like other opioid drugs, Dilaudid is classified as a schedule II controlled substance because of its high potential for abuse, which can lead to Dilaudid addiction.
The Dangers of Dilaudid
After taking Dilaudid, many users experience intense feelings of pleasure or euphoria, which is typically followed by a sense of calmness and well-being. These effects make both patients and recreational users susceptible to Dilaudid abuse and addiction.
Emergency room visits associated with the illicit or non-medical use of hydromorphone, such as Dilaudid, increased by 438% over the past decade from an estimated 3,385 visits in 2004 to 18,224 in 2011 (DAWN ED). On the street, Dilaudid is often called Juice, Smack, D, Footballs, Dillies, or Dust. Abusers will use the drug in ways not intended, such as crushing and snorting or injecting it to get an instant rush. Using the opioid in this manner can result in an overdose.
Symptoms of Dilaudid Overdose
Too much Dilaudid can cause respiratory depression and even death if breathing stops completely. Symptoms of overdose include:
| Pinpoint pupils | Increased sensitivity of the eyes to light |
| Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness | Decreased awareness or responsiveness |
| No muscle tone or movement |
Although Dilaudid overdose is rare when used for medical purposes, patients prescribed Dilaudid may develop a tolerance to it, requiring higher doses to relieve their pain. They may also become dependent on their medication.
What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Dilaudid Addiction?
A person experiencing Dilaudid addiction continually craves the drug. They can’t control their use of this opioid, including the amount and frequency taken, nor can they stop using it despite the harmful effects. Patients taking the substance to control pain may find themselves taking doses greater than what is needed for pain relief.
The effects of Dilaudid addiction depend on how much and how often it is taken, as well as how long it has been used. Some of the symptoms of Dilaudid addiction include running nose, racing heart, insomnia, and sweating.
If you think you may be addicted to Dilaudid, do not abruptly stop using it, as sudden withdrawal may result in uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms. It is best to get the help of medical professionals who will provide you with a safe and effective Dilaudid detox program.
Dilaudid Detox and Treatment
Fear of withdrawal symptoms often prevents or delays users from seeking Dilaudid detox and rehabilitation. Holy Land Rehab offers an intensive outpatient program that may include the use of medications to provide rapid detox and prevent severe withdrawal side effects such as abdominal or stomach cramps, tremors, rigid muscles, cold sweats, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Our Dilaudid detox treatment is combined with rehabilitation programs and relapse prevention services to help you stay Dilaudid-free for life. Learn more about our services and how we can help you by calling our 24-Hour Toll-Free Addiction Helpline (888) 446-5952.
