Hydromorphone

What are they?
Hydromorphone belongs to a class of drugs called “opioids,” which includes morphine. It has an analgesic potency approximately two to eight times greater than that of morphine and has a rapid onset of action.

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How are they abused?
Hydromorphone belongs to a class of drugs called “opioids,” which includes morphine. It has an analgesic potency approximately two to eight times greater than that of morphine and has a rapid onset of action. Injectable solutions, as well as tablets that have been crushed and dissolved in a solution may be injected as a substitute for heroin.

What is their effect on the body?
Euphoria, relaxation, sedation, and reduced anxiety. It may also cause mental clouding, changes in mood, nervousness, restlessness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, impaired coordination, loss of appetite, rash, slow or rapid heartbeat, and changes in blood pressure.

What are its overdose effects?
Acute overdose of hydromorphone can produce: Severe respiratory depression, drowsiness progressing to stupor or coma, lack of skeletal muscle tone, cold and clammy skin, constricted pupils, and reduction in blood pressure and heart rate. Severe overdose may result in death due to respiratory depression.

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