Trusted, medically reviewed health information • Not a substitute for medical advice
Medically Verified MonographSchedule IIClass: Opioid Analgesic

Hydromorphone

Generic Name: Hydromorphone

Common Brand Names: Dilaudid
Dosage Form:Tablet, Liquid, Injection
Route:Oral, IV, IM, SC
Pregnancy Category:C
Last Reviewed:9/21/2026

Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:

You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.

Uses & Medical Indications

Management of moderate to severe pain

Medical Conditions Treated:

Acute and chronic pain

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Adult Dosage

2-4 mg every 4-6 hours (Oral)

Pediatric Dosage

0.03-0.08 mg/kg every 4-6 hours

Elderly / Geriatric Considerations

Start low, go slow

Maximum Dose Limit

Based on tolerance

Renal Impairment:

Reduce dose

Hepatic Impairment:

Reduce dose

Side Effects & Safety Warnings

Common Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, constipation, sedation

Serious Adverse Reactions

Respiratory depression, hypotension, apnea

Contraindications:

Opioid non-tolerant patients (for ER), acute asthma

Important Warnings & Precautions:

High risk for addiction, abuse, and misuse

Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

CNS depressants, MAOIs, benzodiazepines

Food & Dietary Interactions:

N/A

Alcohol Interaction Warning:

Fatal respiratory depression

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety

Pregnancy Safety

Risk of neonatal withdrawal syndrome

Breastfeeding / Lactation

Use caution, observe infant for sedation

Patient Counseling & Practical Advice

How to Take:

Do not drive, avoid alcohol, risk of constipation

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

Take as soon as remembered, skip if close to next

Recommended Monitoring & Lab Tests:

Respiratory rate, pain relief, CNS status

Related Medicines in Opioid Analgesic

Trustworthy Sources & Medical Review

Content for Hydromorphone was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
  • World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
  • Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
  • National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
Reviewer Credentials: PharmD, Clinical PharmacologistLast Reviewed Date: 9/21/2026

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.