DILAUDID, 4MG, TABLET

Common uses

This medication is a narcotic pain reliever. Typically, it is used for pain. Its effects can be felt within 1 hour.

How to use this medication

This medication is typically used every 4 hours. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Generally, it is used only as needed.

Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. This medication may be taken with or without food.

Consuming alcohol may intensify the effect of this product. It is therefore advisable to avoid consuming alcohol or alcohol-containing products while taking this medication.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause dryness of the mouth;
• it may cause constipation -- to prevent this, drink plenty of water or juice, and eat more dietary fibre;
• it may cause drowsiness or dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
• it may cause nausea and vomiting.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Additional information

Do not use this medication for longer than necessary. If you have difficulty stopping the medication when the treatment is finished, talk to your pharmacist.

Rarely, this product causes potentially severe reactions, mostly if taken at high doses or with some other drugs. If you experience agitation, confusion, diarrhea, fever, tremor and muscular rigidity or contractions, you should contact your doctor.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.