Dilaudid Abuse and Addiction | Treatment | Rehab

What is Dilaudid?

Dilaudid is hydromorphone hydrochloride and it is a member of the opioid class of prescription drugs. The term hydromorphone indicates that it is a derivative of Morphine, which is made from the sap of the poppy plant. This is the same chemical substance used to make heroin, therefore Dilaudid is considered to be a very addictive drug if not monitored closely. Dilaudid is used as a pain reliever for patients who have suffered some form of painful bodily trauma.

How does Dilaudid work?

As an opioid, Dilaudid goes straight to work in the central nervous system, attaching itself to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord and gastrointestinal system. The drug attaches to the receptors it “tricks” the body into sensing pleasure instead of feeling pain. So, though pain receptors are firing, the patient only feels a sense of euphoria.

How do patients become addicted to Dilaudid?

It is this euphoria that can lead to addiction in some Dilaudid users. Patients can begin to build up a tolerance to the drug and when the recommended dose is no longer enough satisfy their craving for Dilaudid, they may use other methods of obtaining it, such as buying the medicine on the street or resorting to a technique known as “doctor shopping,” wherein a patient goes to see several doctors to get a prescription for the same drug from each of the physicians.

In order to increase the potency of each dose of Dilaudid, many addicts will resort to injecting or snorting the drug directly into their system. If the user has pills, they will crush the pills first and then shoot or toot the Dilaudid directly into their bloodstream or central nervous system. The “rush” that users experience after using the drug in this manner makes it extremely addictive and many users find themselves needing more Dilaudid more often.

What are the side effects of Dilaudid use?

There are many side effects that stem from suing Dilaudid recreationally and they range from drowsiness, constipation and sweating all the way to irregular heartbeats and seizure. Some users experience anxiety and paranoia as well.

What type of treatment is available for Dilaudid addicts?

When a Dilaudid user is ready to seek treatment for their addiction, it is recommended that they do so under the care of trained staff at a medical treatment facility. Many addicts do not care for their proper health and when going through the withdrawal symptoms, their body may not be able to take the strain and need medical attention. Withdrawal symptoms can go on for up to a week, but they peak between 48 and 72 hours.

After detox, patients are encouraged to seek behavior modification therapy and some type of opioid treatment such as Methadone, Buprenorphine, Naltrexone or Naloxone. These drugs are designed to help reduce the user’s cravings for Dilaudid or other hydromorphones.

Dilaudid Addiction Treatment at Challenges

At Challenges, we believe “Relapse Ends Here.” We are one of the oldest addiction recovery and relapse prevention centers in the state of Florida and the United States. If you or someone you know has a Dilaudid addiction we can help. Our treatment programs are design to suit the individual needs of each client.

We provide a wide variety of treatment options for our clients that include yoga, massage, PHP treatment, extended care transitional treatment, intensive outpatient treatment, neurofeedback and technology enhanced aftercare to ensure success.

Our goal is to provide clients with the tools they need to help them identify their own particular warning signs and trigger mechanisms. Whether you or a family member needs help with behavior modification, or a full drug detox program, at Challenges, we’ll work with you to ensure the program is designed to ensure the best chance for success.

Author - Dr. Jeffrey Huttman Ph.D.

Challenges Can Help
24 Hours a Day / 7 Days a Week
For questions, information or immediate help
Call 1-888-670-5486 (Toll Free)