Often after surgery or an injury, patients are prescribed strong pain medications by healthcare professionals. Although helpful at alleviating symptoms, these medications pose risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse if not monitored closely.
Dilaudid, or hydromorphone, belongs to a group of narcotic (opioid) analgesics that relieve moderate-to-severe pain via the central nervous system. However, this medication should only be prescribed to patients who are tolerant of opioid medications. Dilaudid can be administered in various forms, including orally, Dilaudid IVs, or injection depending on the patient.
What is a Dilaudid IV, and why is it used?
Dilaudid IVs are administered intravenously by healthcare professionals for patients suffering from acute and moderate-to-severe pain. Used in the short-term and long-term, Dilaudid IVs must be monitored to avoid adverse effects, such as overdosing or withdrawal symptoms.
Additional precautions should be followed and addressed with a healthcare professional. Dilaudid IVs may not be an option for you if you are or have the following:
- Allergic to Dilaudid
- Taking other medications
- Asthma
- Head or brain injury
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Fertility concerns
Side effects
Some side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Lightheadedness
- Drowsiness
- Flushing
- Itching
- Mood swings
You should also monitor for other serious side effects, such as labored breathing, hallucinations, dermatitis, swelling, seizures, and/or fainting.
Oral vs. IV Dilaudid: which is better and why?
The best mode of administration of Dilaudid is physician and patient-dependent. We have highlighted the benefits of oral vs. Dilaudid IVs here:
Oral
Prescribed by healthcare professionals, tablets or liquid solutions offer an easy mode of administration while allowing patients pain management autonomy outside of healthcare facilities. Dilaudid is also available as extended-release tablets for patients in need of long-term pain management medication.
Dilaudid IV
On the other hand, Dilaudid IVs administer Dilaudid directly to the bloodstream for quick pain relief. Dilaudid IVs may be offered over 2-3 hours in a hospital or home, depending on the patients’ needs.
For people looking for pain treatment without the frightening warning labels, Drip Hydration offers a variety of mobile IV treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms quickly. IV treatments also provide additional benefits. Book online to have your IV treatment delivered on-demand to homes, offices, and hotels and administered by certified nurses.
In-Home IV Treatments With Drip Hydration
Drip Hydration offers mobile IV treatments in the comfort of your home. Once you book your appointment, a certified nurse will come to your desired location and administer the treatment, which usually takes less than an hour. During this time, you can do anything you’d like, such as relax under a warm blanket or watch TV. Drip Hydration will also go to hotels, worksites, or other locations upon request.
You can either browse our treatment options and decide which is best for you or speak to a representative who can help you choose what you need based on your health goals. To schedule your appointment or learn more, contact us today!
