Patient was educated on contraindications for using Dilaudid as follows:
- Dilaudid must be avoided or used cautiously in individuals allergic to other opioid analgesics, such as Hydrocodone, Morphine, and Codeine.
- Dilaudid slows down the bowel movements heavily and leads to constipation. Dilaudid must be avoided or used with extreme caution in chronically constipated patients, as they are at increased risk for episodes of ileus and intestinal obstruction with Dilaudid.
- Dilaudid produces an intense feeling of drowsiness and dizziness, as a side effect to modifying the pain perception of brain. Patients can also experience hallucinations and mood changes due to Dilaudid use. Dilaudid must be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals taking antidepressants and other psychotropic medications that have the potential to induce hallucinations and mood changes.
- Dilaudid is mainly metabolized by the liver. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Dilaudid and this can lead to increased blood levels of Dilaudid for longer duration, leading to toxicity. Dilaudid should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Dilaudid affects the respiratory center in the brain and induces slowing down of respirations. The breathing pattern can become irregular with reduced gas exchange and lead to elevated carbon dioxide and reduced oxygen levels in the body. Overdose of Dilaudid can also cause respiratory arrest. Dilaudid should be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of respiratory abnormalities, such as, asthma and COPD.
