Dilaudid is a brand name of hydromorphone (also called dimorphone). A semi-synthetic derivative of morphine, Dilaudid is an opioid analgesic in medical terminology and is a high abuse potential drug ("Schedule II" narcotic).

Alternative  & street names:

Dilaudid could be used interchangeably with other brand names of hydromorphone produced globally, including: Palladone, Hydal, Hydromorfan, Hymorphan, Opidol, Sophidone, Hydrostat, Hydromorphan, Laudicon, etc.

On the street, Dilaudid might be referred to as Dust, Dill, Dilly, Dillies, D, Big D, Super 8, Hydro, M-80s, M-2, white triangles, footballs, moose, and “Hospital Heroin.

How is Dilaudid taken?

Dilaudid is consumed orally, rectally, intravenously or nasally (crushed and snorted) - not a prescribed method.

Effects of consumption

Doctors prescribe Dilaudid as a pain reliever, as well as a suppressant for severe, dry coughing. Dilaudid is 3 to 4 times more powerful than morphine, but not as addictive.

Impact on the mind/body and health risks

Effects of Dilaudid and other hydromorphones are similar to effects of morphine, including the risks of depression of the respiratory and circulatory systems.

Side effects most commonly associated with Dilaudid are dizziness, itching, constipation, nausea, sweating and vomiting. The effects of overdose can be enhanced when mixed with alcohol.

Signs of abuse of this substance

Users who exhibit signs of withdrawal (listed below) or who engage in doctor shopping in order to acquire additional prescriptions are likely addicted.

Common treatment options

In order to prevent acute withdrawal symptoms, a Dilaudid user must slowly taper off his/her dosage under the care of a doctor. An addict needs 24/7 treatment in a hospital or in-patient detox facility.

Withdrawal/detox symptoms

A low-dosing user quitting Dilaudid “cold turkey” can expect an intense withdrawal syndrome more severe than simple morphine withdrawal, but for a shorter period of time. As long as the user has normal kidneys and liver, the withdrawal could last 36 to 72 hours, peaking within the first day.

Users with a dosage greater than 40mg/day can experience a two-week withdrawal process, with symptoms that could include: cold sweats, constant shaking, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, body pain and muscle cramping.