Overview
It's several times stronger than morphine by weight. It's a controlled substance.
What it's used for
- Severe pain when other medicines aren't enough
How to take it
- Take it exactly as prescribed. Use the measuring device for liquids.
- Swallow extended-release tablets whole.
- Keep naloxone (Narcan) at home and show family where it is. It can reverse an opioid overdose.
- Keep it locked up.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
Warnings
- Boxed warnings: addiction, slowed breathing, accidental swallowing by children, and dose errors.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Taking it with alcohol, benzodiazepines (like alprazolam or lorazepam), sleep medicines, gabapentin, or other opioids can slow breathing and cause death.
- Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Long-term use in pregnancy can cause withdrawal in the newborn.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Hydromorphone (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.