Dilaudid side effects: A detailed guide

This article describes possible side effects of Dilaudid. You can explore this overview article to learn more about Dilaudid, including the drug’s uses, side effects, ways to save on cost, and more.

Dilaudid is a brand-name medication that comes as an oral tablet, oral solution, and solution for injection (given into the muscle, vein, or under the skin). It’s available in a generic version called hydromorphone. This article describes possible side effects of Dilaudid.

Unless stated otherwise in this article, the term “Dilaudid” is used for all forms of the drug.

Boxed warnings

Dilaudid has boxed warnings about the following risks. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

• risk of serious harm from medication errors with Dilaudid oral tablet and oral solution
• risk of addiction and misuse with Dilaudid
• risk of serious breathing problems with Dilaudid
• risk of accidental ingestion with Dilaudid oral tablet and oral solution
• risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) with Dilaudid
• risk of serious side effects if Dilaudid is taken with certain other medications

For more information about the risk of addiction and misuse, see the “Misuse and Dilaudid” section below. To learn about the risk of NOWS, see the “Warnings for Dilaudid” section below. For more details, see the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section below.

More common side effects of Dilaudid

Dilaudid may cause mild or serious side effects. Below are some of the more common side effects of this medication.

More common side effects of Dilaudid reported in studies include:

• feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• drowsiness
• nausea
• vomiting
• sweating

These side effects were reported in studies of Dilaudid oral tablets or solution and Dilaudid injection.

Mild side effects of Dilaudid

Dilaudid may cause certain mild side effects. Most often, mild side effects are temporary and can be easily managed. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have side effects that don’t go away or become bothersome.

Mild side effects of Dilaudid that occurred in studies include:

• blurry vision
• constipation
• drowsiness
• decreased appetite
• dry mouth
• feelings of intense excitement and happiness
• feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• feelings of unease or dissatisfaction
• flushing (skin discoloration)
• itchiness
• low blood pressure
• nausea
• vomiting
• sweating
• weakness
• mild allergic reaction*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section below.

These side effects were reported in studies of Dilaudid oral tablets or solution and Dilaudid injection. Dilaudid may cause more mild side effects than those listed above. For details, see the drug’s prescribing information for Dilaudid oral tablets or solution and Dilaudid injection.

Serious side effects of Dilaudid

Dilaudid may cause certain serious side effects. If you have any serious side effects from Dilaudid, call your doctor right away. But if you think you’re having a medical emergency or your side effects feel life threatening, take immediate action. Call 911 or a local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.

After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. Visit MedWatch’s website if you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Dilaudid.

Serious side effects of Dilaudid that occurred in studies include:

• adrenal insufficiency
• depression
• hallucinations
• ileus (lack of movement in the intestines, which can lead to a blockage)
• impaired decision-making and coordination
• low blood pressure when standing or sitting up, which can lead to fainting and other injuries
• inability to completely empty the bladder
• withdrawal symptoms, if treatment is stopped suddenly
• risk of serious harm from medication errors†
• risk of addiction and misuse‡
• risk of serious breathing problems†
• risk of accidental ingestion†
• risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome§
• risk of serious side effects if taken or administered with certain other medications†
• severe allergic reaction*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section below.
† Dilaudid has a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section below.
‡ Dilaudid has a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Misuse and Dilaudid” section below.
§ Dilaudid has a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Warnings for Dilaudid” section below.

These side effects were reported in studies of Dilaudid oral tablets or solution and Dilaudid injection.

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Common questions about side effects of Dilaudid

Here are answers to some common questions about side effects of Dilaudid. If you have other questions, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

How do the side effects of Dilaudid compare with those of morphine?

Dilaudid and morphine are both opioid drugs prescribed to treat severe pain. These drugs share many side effects, including constipation, nausea and vomiting, and feeling lightheaded or dizzy. Some shared serious side effects include a risk of addiction and misuse*, serious breathing problems†, and serious side effects if taken or administered with certain other medications†.

This isn’t a complete list of shared side effects of Dilaudid and morphine. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about how Dilaudid and morphine compare.

* Dilaudid has a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Misuse and Dilaudid” section below.
† Dilaudid has a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section below.

Does Dilaudid cause long-term side effects?

Yes, in some cases, Dilaudid may cause long-term side effects. These can occur if you take or receive the drug for a long time. Some of these effects could last for a while after you’ve stopped taking or receiving the drug.

Examples of long-term side effects reported with Dilaudid include:

• adrenal insufficiency
• ileus (lack of movement in the intestines, which can lead to a blockage)
• risk of addiction and misuse†
• withdrawal symptoms if treatment was stopped suddenly

The risk of withdrawal increases if Dilaudid is used long term.

These side effects were reported in studies of Dilaudid oral tablets or solution and Dilaudid injection. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you’d like to learn more about Dilaudid and its long-term side effects.

† Dilaudid has a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Misuse and Dilaudid” section below.

Misuse and Dilaudid

Dilaudid has boxed warnings for the risk of addiction and misuse. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA.

With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. Addiction means a drug is used even if it’s causing harm.

Dilaudid is an opioid drug. Taking or administering this medication carries a high risk for misuse and addiction. There is still a risk even if it’s taken or administered at recommended doses as prescribed by your doctor. Certain factors increase this risk, including a personal or family history of substance use disorder.

Due to this risk, Dilaudid is a controlled substance. This means there are strict regulations in place for how Dilaudid may be prescribed by doctors and dispensed at pharmacies.

Your doctor will ask if you have a current or past substance use disorder before prescribing Dilaudid. If they prescribe Dilaudid, they’ll closely monitor you for signs of misuse or addiction during treatment. They’ll also likely prescribe naloxone so that a friend or family member may use it on you in case of an overdose.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you’d like to learn more about Dilaudid and these risks.

Side effects of Dilaudid in detail

Below you’ll find details on some of the side effects of Dilaudid.

Boxed warnings

Dilaudid has several boxed warnings, which are the most severe warning for a drug from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Risk of serious harm from medication errors

Dilaudid oral solution carries a risk of serious harm from medication errors. Taking too much Dilaudid oral solution at once can cause an accidental overdose, which can be life threatening.

Due to this risk, you should only use the measuring device that comes with the drug to measure your dose of Dilaudid oral solution.

Ways to manage

When you pick up your Dilaudid oral solution prescription, your pharmacist should also provide you with a measuring device. Dilaudid oral solution doses should only be given using this specific dose-measuring device. Your pharmacist should show you how to use the dosing device to properly measure Dilaudid oral solution doses.

Never use a household tablespoon or teaspoon to give doses of Dilaudid oral solution. These devices aren’t made for measuring Dilaudid oral solution doses, and using one to measure a dose increases your risk of accidental overdose.

Risk of serious breathing problems

In studies of Dilaudid oral tablets or solution and studies of Dilaudid injection, serious breathing problems were rare. This side effect may be serious or even life threatening.

Specifically, Dilaudid can cause respiratory depression. With respiratory depression, your breathing becomes slow and shallow. Symptoms of respiratory depression also include:

• daytime sleepiness
• confusion
• in severe cases, bluish or discolored colored fingers, toes, or lips

Certain factors can increase the risk of respiratory depression with Dilaudid. These include having a breathing or lung condition, such as asthma or sleep apnea. This risk is highest during your first few days of starting treatment with Dilaudid.

Ways to manage

If you’re prescribed Dilaudid, your doctor will likely prescribe naloxone to you so that a friend or family member may use it on you in case of respiratory depression. Keep in mind that they should still call 911, even after using naloxone.

If you experience symptoms of respiratory depression that feel life threatening, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room right away. Because you may be unable to perform these actions, it’s important that a close friend or family member knows you’re taking Dilaudid. They can help you get medical care in the event of an emergency.

Risk of accidental ingestion

Accidental ingestion of Dilaudid oral tablets or oral solution can result in a life threatening or fatal overdose. In children, this can occur by accidentally taking just one tablet or a small amount of oral solution.

Ways to manage

Store Dilaudid oral tablets and oral solution in a safe, secure place. If possible, store the medication on a high shelf out of reach from children.

If you’re prescribed Dilaudid, your doctor will likely prescribe naloxone to you so that it may be used in case of accidental ingestion. Call 911 or seek emergency medical help right away if someone accidentally takes Dilaudid.

Risk of serious side effects if taken with certain other medications

Taking Dilaudid with certain other medications can increase the risk for serious side effects, particularly respiratory depression.

Medications that increase the risk for serious side effects if used with Dilaudid include:

• benzodiazepines, such as alprazoalm (Xanax)
• sedatives/hypnotics (drugs that help you sleep), such as zolpidem (Ambien)
• muscle relaxants, such as cyclobenzaprine
• other opioids, such as oxycodone
• antipsychotics, such as quetiapine

Drinking alcohol (if you drink) while taking or administering Dilaudid also increases this risk.

Ways to manage

Due to this risk, doctors will only prescribe Dilaudid together with a drug listed above if no other treatments are available or will work to treat your conditions. If they prescribe Dilaudid with these medications, they’ll prescribe the lowest dose needed to treat your symptoms. They’ll also closely monitor you for side effects throughout the treatment. Your doctor will likely prescribe naloxone so that it may be used in case of respiratory depression.

Allergic reaction

For some people, Dilaudid can cause an allergic reaction.

Symptoms can be mild or serious, and they may include:

• itchiness
• skin rash
• swelling under the skin, usually affecting eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe
• flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)

Ways to manage

For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep taking the medication.

For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening. If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Dilaudid, your doctor may recommend taking a different medication instead.

Warnings for Dilaudid

Below are some factors you may want to discuss with your doctor before taking or receiving Dilaudid.

Boxed warnings

This drug has boxed warnings about the following risks. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

• risk of serious harm from medication errors with Dialudid oral tablet and oral solution
• risk of addiction and misuse with Dilaudid
• risk of serious breathing problems with Dilaudid
• risk of accidental ingestion with Dilaudid oral tablet and oral solution
• risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome with Dilaudid
• risk of serious side effects if taken with certain other medications with Dilaudid

For more information about the risk of addiction and misuse, see the “Misuse and Dilaudid” section above. To learn about the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, see the “Dilaudid and pregnancy” section below. For other details, see the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section above.

Other warnings

It may not be safe for you to take Dilaudid if you have specific health conditions. These are sometimes called drug-condition interactions. Other things may also affect whether Dilaudid is a safe treatment option for you.

Before taking Dilaudid, tell your doctor about your health and medications you take. Things to consider include:

• blockage or narrowing in your stomach or intestines
• breathing or lung conditions, such as asthma
• history of head injury
• epilepsy or seizures
• problems with urination
• kidney problems, such as chronic kidney disease
• liver condition, such as alcohol-related liver disease
• thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism
• problem in the pancreas, such as pancreatitis
• past allergic reaction to Dilaudid

Dilaudid and pregnancy

Dilaudid has a boxed warning about certain risks if the drug is taken or administered during pregnancy.

Boxed warning: Risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome

Dilaudid has a boxed warning regarding the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) if the drug is used during pregnancy. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Long-term use of Dilaudid during pregnancy can cause NOWS. With NOWS, a newborn has uncomfortable side effects because they’ve stopped receiving a drug their body is used to. Without proper treatment, NOWS can be life threatening.

If you are pregnant or can become pregnant, your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of taking or receiving Dilaudid during pregnancy. If you use Dilaudid during pregnancy, your child will be closely monitored for NOWS upon birth and will get the treatment if they show symptoms.

Talk with your doctor if you have additional questions about treating your pain during pregnancy.

Dilaudid and breastfeeding

Dilaudid appears in breast milk and may cause side effects in a breastfed child. However, it may not be safe to stop Dilaudid treatment, especially suddenly. The risk of stopping treatment may outweigh the risks of side effects in a breastfed child.

If you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before taking or administering this medication. They can advise on the best way to treat your pain and feed your child.

Dilaudid and alcohol

Dilaudid is known to interact with alcohol.

Consuming alcohol while taking Dilaudid raises the risk of serious side effects. Dilaudid has a boxed warning about this risk. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). See the “Side effects of Dilaudid in detail” section above to learn more.

If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about the risks of consuming it during your treatment with Dilaudid.

What to ask your doctor

This article describes common and serious side effects of Dilaudid. If your doctor prescribes this medication, they can discuss possible side effects with you. Let your doctor know if you have concerns or questions about treatment with this medication.

Here’s a list of some possible questions you may want to ask your doctor:

• Would you be prescribing naloxone to help treat certain serious side effects of Dilaudid?
• How will you be monitoring me for side effects if I start treatment with Dilaudid?
• If I wish to stop treatment with Dilaudid, what’s the best way for me to avoid withdrawal symptoms?
• Do other medications that I take increase my risk of side effects with Dilaudid?

Disclaimer: Optum Perks has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.