About hydromorphone

Hydromorphone is used to relieve severe pain, it works on the nerves and brain to reduce the pain you feel. It is available in capsule form and as a modified release capsule, which means it is released slowly over the day to give a more even effect.

Before taking hydromorphone

Before taking hydromorphone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have breathing problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.
• If you have prostate problems.
• If you have adrenal gland or thyroid problems.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have epilepsy.
• If you have low blood pressure.
• If you are experiencing sudden and severe abdominal pain.
• If you have been constipated for more than a week, with or without tummy pain and bloatedness.
• If you have recently suffered a serious head injury.
• If you have had problems with drug or alcohol addiction.
• If you have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you have pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
• If you have toxic psychosis (a mental health problem).
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines. It is particularly important that you tell your doctor if you have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (a type of antidepressant) in the last 2 weeks.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

How to take hydromorphone

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take hydromorphone exactly as directed by your doctor.
• If you find it difficult to swallow the capsules, they can be opened and the contents sprinkled onto soft food such as yoghurt before eating. Do not chew or crush the contents of the capsules.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Avoid alcoholic drinks. Alcohol will increase the side-effects of hydromorphone.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking hydromorphone.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with hydromorphone.
• If you are planning a trip abroad you are advised to carry a letter with you from your doctor because hydromorphone is a controlled drug. If you plan to travel for more than 3 months, you must check with the Home Office before you travel as you will need to apply in writing for a licence to take hydromorphone with you.
• Do not stop taking these capsules without speaking with your doctor first, as stopping suddenly can cause problems such as agitation, anxiety, shaking and sweating. If you want to stop taking hydromorphone your doctor will reduce your dose gradually.

Can hydromorphone cause problems

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store hydromorphone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines