Sometimes the pain we feel is so severe that it's unbearable. When regular painkillers don't work, doctors may prescribe a stronger medication. Hydromorphone is a special medication that is used to control severe and long-lasting pain. It's important to be aware of it and use it safely. So let's talk about it today.
What kind of medicine is this? (What is Hydromorphone?)
Simply put, Hydromorphone is a powerful painkiller that belongs to a class of drugs called opioids. This drug works by blocking the transmission of pain signals to our brain. But there is something special about this one. It is an "Extended-Release" or "long-acting" type of drug. This means that when you take this pill, the medicinal ingredients in it are gradually released into the body throughout the day.
Very important: This is only used for long-term, severe pain, such as cancer pain. It is not used for sudden, sudden pain, such as a headache, toothache, or injury.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine
Before starting this medication, it is essential to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:
| Do you have these conditions? | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Brain tumor, head injury | Because this medicine may increase pressure in the brain. |
| Drug or alcohol addiction | This is also because this is a drug that carries a risk of addiction. |
| Lung disease, asthma, or other breathing problems | Because this can slow breathing. |
| Kidney or Liver disease | Because the process of removing the drug from the body may be affected. |
| Stomach or intestinal problems, seizures | Because these conditions are likely to worsen. |
| If you have taken an MAOI medication in the past 14 days | This is a dangerous compound that can cause very severe side effects. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | This medicine may affect the baby in the womb or through breast milk. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
Because this is a powerful medicine, it is very important to use it exactly as the doctor tells you.
- Swallow the tablet whole: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Never break, crush, or chew the tablet. Doing so will release the full amount of medicine that should be released throughout the day into your body at once. This is very dangerous and can lead to an overdose.
- Take the medicine at the right time: Take the medicine at the right time, at the right intervals, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it too frequently.
- With or without food: This can be taken before or after meals. If you experience stomach upset, take it with food.
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly: Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor. Doing so may cause withdrawal symptoms. If you do stop, do so under the supervision of your doctor, and gradually reduce the dose.
What to do if you overdose?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, or if someone else has taken it by mistake, it is an emergency. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital (telephone number 0112686143), or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This medicine is for you only. The doctor has prescribed it to suit your pain and your body. Never share it with anyone else.
Things to be especially careful about while taking the medicine
Pain and tolerance
Over time, you may find that the dose of medication that worked for you is no longer enough. This is called tolerance, or the body becoming accustomed to the medication. This is normal when you take this type of medication for a long time. It is not addictive. If you feel this way, tell your doctor. He or she will adjust the dose as needed.
Addiction and Dependence
Don't confuse the two. The body's adaptation to a drug and 'addiction' are two different things. If you're taking a drug because you're in pain, that's a medical reason. Addiction is the seeking of it without a medical reason, like getting high.
Alcohol and other drugs
Avoid drinking alcohol completely while taking hydromorphone. The combination of the two can slow your breathing and be life-threatening. Also, sleeping pills, some antidepressants, and antihistamines can interact with it. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins.
Drowsiness and dizziness
This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not stand up or sit down suddenly.
Constipation
Constipation is a common side effect for many people taking this medication. To prevent this, drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables). If you have difficulty defecating for more than three days, talk to your doctor.
Side effects of the medicine
| Notify your doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Slow breathing (CNS depression) | Breathing is very shallow or shallow, excessive sleepiness, and loss of consciousness. |
| Low blood pressure | Dizziness, blue eyes, feeling faint. |
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Common side effects | Constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, vomiting. |
How to store and dispose of medicine safely?
Since this is a very strong medicine, do not leave it where children and pets can get it. It can be fatal if someone accidentally takes it. Therefore, it is best to keep this medicine in a safe place, locked up, where it cannot be stolen.
It is best to dispose of expired or unused medicines at a proper disposal facility. If this is not possible, consult your doctor or hospital for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Hydromorphone is a powerful, all-day painkiller that is only given for severe, chronic pain.
- Never break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole.
- Tell your doctor about all the medications you take and all your medical conditions.
- Avoid drinking alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
- If you experience dangerous symptoms such as excessive sleepiness and difficulty breathing, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Do not share this medicine with others, it is illegal and very dangerous. Always keep it in a safe place out of the reach of children.
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