Why is Dilaudid prescribed?
Dilaudid, a narcotic analgesic, is prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain such as that due to: • Biliary colic (pain caused by an obstruction in the gallbladder or bile duct) • Burns • Cancer • Heart attack • Injury (soft tissue and bone) • Renal colic (sharp lower back and groin pain usually caused by the passage of a stone through the ureter) • Surgery Most important fact about this drug Return to top High dose tolerance leading to mental and physical dependence can occur with the use of Dilaudid when it is taken repeatedly. Physical dependence (need for continual doses to prevent withdrawal symptoms) can occur after only a few days of narcotic use, although it usually takes several weeks. How should you take this medication? Return to top Take Dilaudid exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Never increase the amount you take without your doctor’s approval. • If you miss a dose… Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, sk
