Dilaudid (hydromorphone hydrochloride) and Dilaudid Injection (also termed Dilaudid HP) are the tablet, liquid and IV forms of an opioid analgesic used for control of moderate to severe pain. Dilaudid is available in generic form. Dilaudid is available in tablets in 8 mg strength, in liquid form in 5 mg strength per 5 ml of liquid, and Dilaudid Injection is available as sterile solution containing 1, 2, or 4 mg hydromorphone hydrochloride with 0.2% sodium citrate and 0.2% citric acid solution. Dosage of tablets usually begins at 2-4 mg every 4-6 hours; liquid begins at 2.5 mg (2.5 ml) every 3-6 hours and may be modified according to patient response and doctor's prescription. Dilaudid injection starting dose is 1-2 mg subcutaneously or intramuscularly every 4 to 6 hours as necessary for pain; it can also be given IV slowly over 2-3 min but respiration needs to be monitored. Dilaudid may interact with alcohol, other narcotic pain medications, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxers, other medicines that can make you sleepy or slow your breathing, buprenorphine, butorphanol, nalbuphine, pentazocine, atropine, belladonna, benztropine, dimenhydrinate, methscopolamine, scopolamine, bladder or urinary medicines, bronchodilators, irritable bowel medicines, or ulcer medications. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. Dilaudid should be used in pregnant women only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or breastfeeding infant; the drug should not be used for labor or delivery; pregnant women taking the medication will usually cause the fetus/infant to be dependent on opioids and likely will have other effects on the infant. There are no Dilaudid studies on pediatric patients.