Activates opioid receptors that naturally exist in your body, which have a number of effects on your body. One of these is to provide analgesia and relieve pain, which is what the drug is used for.

Like other opioids, it mimics the effect of natural opioids in your body.  

Effective painkiller that treats moderate to severe pain. 

Brand names of hydromorphone include:
~Dilaudid
~Dilaudid-5
~Dilaudid-HP Injection
~Exalgo

*Take this medication on a regular schedule as directed by your doctor, not as needed for sudden (breakthrough) pain.

**Do NOT increase your dose, take the medication more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.** 

Common side effects include
*Nausea
*Vomiting
*Constipation
*Lightheadedness
*Dizziness
*Drowsiness
*Sweating
*Flushing
*Dry mouth

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms with severity:
*Abdominal or stomach pain
*Blurred vision
*Sever tingling feelings
*Vision changes
*Chest pain or discomfort
*Confusion
*Decreased urination
*Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
*Hives, itching, or skin rash
*Increased sweating
*severe constipation
*severe vomiting 

Do not use alcohol or medications that contain alcohol while you are receiving treatment with hydromorphone.

Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. 

Please consult your doctor/physician before considering alternatives and see if they are right for you.
*Codeine
*Tramadol
*Oxycodone