Hydromorphone [Dihydromorphinone]

Hydromorphone is an adequate drug for the symptomatic management of acute severe pain of short duration. The advantage of this drug over other opiate analgesics, such as morphine or meperidine, is its better oral absorption. In addition, hydromorphone rectal suppositories may provide longer duration of pain relief for some patients and obviate the need for dosing during sleeping hours. Subcutaneous and intravenous injections are generally well tolerated. For intravenous pharmacotherapy, slowly inject over 2 to 3 minutes, depending on the dose. Patients should lie down for injectable hydromorphone pharmacotherapy and should remain lying down for at least 30 to 60 minutes following their injections. Postural (orthostatic) hypotension and fainting may occur if patients stand up suddenly after receiving an injection of hydromorphone. The hydromorphone concentrated injectable formulations are only intended for hydromorphone pharmacotherapy for patients who are tolerant to opiate analgesics and, thus, require higher dosages.