Dilaudid and its generic form, hydromorphone, is similar to all opioid drugs, as it is medically administered for pain. It is formulated as oral tablets and liquid, rectal suppository, intra-muscular injection such as in the buttock or hip, and intravenous drip solution. The main chemical ingredient is hydromorphone, which is a derivative of morphine. Categorized as a schedule II narcotic due to its potency, it is potentially habit-forming. Users gravitate toward Dilaudid for the euphoric high, which is particularly powerful when show into the bloodstream intravenously. Users are also prone to dilaudid addiction.
Addiction to Dilaudid is relatively common among those prescribed. Factors that boost a user's likelihood of become addicted to Dilaudid include a family history of addiction, as well as co-occurring disorders such as underlying depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Generally, addiction is characterized by the compulsive and habitual misuse of any drug to achieve various effects, such as:
- Calming or euphoric effects.
- Evade innermost emotions i.e. "checking out".
- Reducing or eliminating anxiety.
- Dulling symptoms of depression.
- To increase social proclivity in order to feel comfortable in social situations.
- Seeking the drugs to the extent that the cost becomes unreasonable in comparison to the gain.
Thankfully, Dilaudid rehabilitation centers have been created as entities intended to restore hope, health and recovery to clients suffering from an addiction. Drug rehab programs take a multifaceted approach to treating clients addicted to Dilaudid. Their programs help the client work through the spiritual, emotional and physical effects addiction reeks on the addict. To know if your friend or loved one has an addiction to Dilaudid, certain clues can indicate addiction:
- An increased tolerance for the drug.
- Seeking out the drug even at costs to their financial status, physical health, social life, family ties, and academics.
- A preoccupation with Dilaudid even at inappropriate times (i.e. sporting events, funerals, etc).
- Acting out in uncharacteristic ways based on seeking and ingesting Dilaudid and perpetuating the addiction.
Dilaudid rehabilitation centers begin by evaluating each patient on a case-by-case basis. Part of the initial health assessment at a rehabilitation center involves a physical examination, blood and urine screening, and an analysis of the patient's condition based on verbal exchanges. Medical professionals at rehabilitation centers sustain value in their experiences with multiple Dilaudid addicts. Thus, over time they develop skill in assessing the level of addiction in a new patient.
Once the initial health assessment is completed and intake paperwork has been filled out adequately, rehabilitation staff members design a treatment regimen for the client including a Dilaudid detoxification regimen.
Most treatment plans incorporate group therapy sessions on a daily basis, individual therapy on a weekly basis, and sober activities chaperoned by resident assistants. All aspects of the upcoming treatment plan are outlined clearly so that all parties are on the same page. Prior to discharge, newly recovering addicts will be provided with aftercare instructions and relapse prevention tools.
Particularly for Dilaudid addicts who have developed a tolerance, experience high levels of risk when "coming down" from the drug. Users report feeling the following withdrawal symptoms from cessation of Dilaudid use:
- Depressed and sad
- Angry
- Agitated and anxious
- Nauseous
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Delusions
- Muscle cramping
- Bone pain
- Fatigue
For those already suffering from depression, shooting Dilaudid temporarily eases symptoms, but eventually exacerbates their depression. Taking drugs is a short-term solution to a long-term problem. Without addressing deep-rooted memories, painful emotions, and unprocessed feelings, the addict will continue reaching for unhealthy coping methods such as using Dilaudid.
Fellowshipping with other narcotic addicts is key throughout recovery, particularly in early stages. The mental obsession of Dilaudid, physical craving, and spiritual emptiness associated with Dilaudid addiction will ebb and flow in severity. Having a dependable support network in place helps ensure that the Dilaudid addict does not fall into unhealthy patterns without the opportunity to reach out for help.
Recovering from a Dilaudid addiction is debilitating not only on the physical body but on the psyche as well. Replacing behaviors that were once centered on drug seeking and abusing must be replaced with healthy alternatives. Examples of healthy behaviors to engage in rather than participating in a drug culture include painting classes, equine therapy, volunteering, and jogging.
