Hydromorphone is a prescription opioid medication used to manage moderate to severe pain. It is available under several trade names.
What are the common brand names for hydromorphone?
The most frequently encountered brand name for hydromorphone in the United States is Dilaudid [1]. Other trade names for hydromorphone may exist, particularly in different countries or as part of combination products.
What is hydromorphone used to treat?
Hydromorphone is prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain, typically when around-the-clock pain management is required [1]. It is also used for pain relief before and after surgical procedures.
How does hydromorphone work?
As an opioid analgesic, hydromorphone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and central nervous system. This action alters the perception of pain and the emotional response to pain, thereby reducing the sensation of pain [2].
When does the patent for Dilaudid expire?
Patent information for specific medications, including Dilaudid, can be complex and subject to change due to various factors such as new patents, extensions, and legal challenges. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these details and may offer information on patent expiry dates for Dilaudid and its generic forms [3].
Are there generic versions of hydromorphone available?
Yes, generic versions of hydromorphone are available, which can impact the pricing and accessibility of the medication [4]. The availability of generics often follows the expiration of primary patents.
What are the risks associated with taking hydromorphone?
Hydromorphone carries significant risks, including the potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [1]. Other serious risks include respiratory depression, particularly when used with other central nervous system depressants, and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in infants born to mothers who have used hydromorphone during pregnancy [1].
How is hydromorphone administered?
Hydromorphone can be administered in various ways, including orally (tablets, liquid), intravenously, intramuscularly, and rectally [1]. The method of administration is typically determined by the severity and type of pain being treated.
Sources:
1. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/hydromorphone.html
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551523/
3. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537223/