Hydromorphone abuse is extremely dangerous, and those who misuse this drug are likely to become addicted to it. But how can you know for sure if someone you love has been abusing hydromorphone and what can you do to help them? Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? now to learn more about your options for opioid addiction treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Hydromorphone Abuse
Hydromorphone can be prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain, and the extended-release version of the drug is often prescribed to treat those with intense, round-the-clock pain (National Library of Medicine). However, when someone begins abusing an opioid drug, especially one with more intense effects like hydromorphone, they will begin to show certain signs and symptoms of their substance abuse. These can include
Abusing hydromorphone can lead to severe physical and psychological side effects.
- Becoming very secretive, not wanting to tell you where they’ve been and where they’re going, etc.
- Becoming hostile when others bring up their substance use
- Hiding drugs around the house or in their rooms
- Hiding drug paraphernalia such as pill bottles, needles, etc.
- Hanging out with different people than usual and spending less and less time with old friends
- Spending more time alone
- Using the common street names for hydromorphone, including
- Hydro
- Hydros
- Heidis
- D
- Dillies
- Laudies
- Becoming apathetic toward work and/or school as well as activities that used to be important to them
- Neglecting responsibilities in order to use drugs
- Putting themselves or others in danger in order to use or obtain more drugs
- Experiencing severe physical or psychological side effects from their hydromorphone use, including
- Chronic constipation
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Abdominal pain
- Dry mouth
- Not wanting to stop using the drug or talk to a doctor when experiencing these symptoms
If someone you love has shown more than one of these characteristics, there is a strong possibility they are abusing their hydromorphone medication. This drug is very addictive, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration, so it is important to act quickly when you think someone may be abusing it.
What Can I Do?
Because you love the person who is using and do not want them to get hurt worse as a result of their opioid abuse, it is most likely time to seek treatment and to try to get them into a recovery program. Here are some of the steps you can take.
- Find a rehab program that will suit their needs before you begin talking to them.
- Stage an intervention. A group of 6 or so individuals who all are close to your loved one and care about them is a good choice. Make sure everyone writes down what they want to say before the meeting.
- Explain to your loved one at the intervention that they will need to seek help in order to continue receiving your support. If they do not, inform them there will be consequences.
Getting your loved one into treatment is the most important thing. This will help them avoid further issues and put an end to their substance abuse.
Get Help Now
You can find effective and reliable rehab centers by calling 800-442-6158 Who Answers? today. Our treatment advisors are standing by, ready to help you find the best options for your loved one’s safe recovery.
