A man experiences uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms while wondering what is dilaudid addictionDeveloping a narcotic addiction is always possible. This includes the dangerous drug, Dilaudid. What is Dilaudid addiction? It’s a tolerance that quickly develops within a few weeks. Above all, understanding the signs of addiction helps you decide if you need help.

What is Dilaudid Addiction?

Dilaudid is the brand name for hydromorphone, an opioid for pain management. It reduces the way pain signals affect the brain. Additionally, it produces a euphoric state similar to heroin.

Overall, dosage depends on the patient needs. If pain gets worse or you develop a tolerance, you’ll end up needing to increase use to get the same effects.

When taking this medication, you stop making your own pain-managing chemicals. Therefore, if you suddenly stop taking Dilaudid, you’ll experience harrowing withdrawal symptoms.

Emotional and Physical Effects of Dilaudid Addiction

Tolerance or withdrawal symptoms don’t always indicate drug addiction. However, you might be struggling with addiction if you can’t stop using. Thus, signs of addiction include an obsession with obtaining the next dose, mood instability, neglecting responsibilities, stealing, and doctor shopping.

Often, people don’t realize they’re abusing the drug. Eventually, a doctor’s prescription for pain management could develop into an addiction. For example, the physical signs of dilaudid addiction include breathing problems, persistent itching, excessive perspiration, poor coordination, and randomly nodding off.

Dilaudid can cause a number of side effects. Overall, these range from loss of appetite or headache to lightheadedness and loss of consciousness. The additional effects of long-term Dilaudid include:

  • Rash
  • Hoarseness
  • Stomach cramps
  • Small pupils
  • Anxiety
  • Sudden drop in blood pressure

Furthermore, constipation is a potentially dangerous side effect of Dilaudid addiction as well. Consequently, irregular bowel functions could lead to hazardous blockage. Respiratory depression is another concern. If you don’t get enough oxygen over time, you may experience harmful brain cell deterioration.

Getting The Necessary Help

The first step to drug addiction rehab involves removing the drug from the body. You must completely eliminate the chemical from your system to regain central nervous system functionality. This drug detox process isn’t easy alone.

Getting medical aid and support in a quality treatment setting guides you to the right recovery path. Our drug addiction rehab programs at Steps to Recovery in Levittown, PA also include:

We offer an extensive pre-admissions procedure that helps us get to know you and develop an effective treatment plan. If you have questions about a Dilaudid addiction that may be plaguing you or a loved one, call us at 267.719.8528.