Is Dilaudid A Controlled Substance?
Medically reviewed by
Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BCMay 9, 2019
Dilaudid is both a controlled substance and a narcotic. This drug is part of the opioid family and comes with a high risk for abuse and dependence.
Dilaudid, brand name for hydromorphone, is an opioid drug used in the treatment of severe and chronic pain. Dilaudid is considered both a controlled substance and a narcotic.
Hydromorphone is a derivative of morphine, a highly potent opioid drug. The effects of Dilaudid and morphine are very similar. This makes Dilaudid one of the more potent opioids available.
While Dilaudid certainly has many medical benefits, its potency and effects mean that this drug comes with a high potential for abuse and dependence. Opioids are highly addictive, and this drug is no different.
What Is A Controlled Substance?
The Controlled Substance Act (CSA) was created in 1970 by the FDA. The CSA organizes drugs into drug class schedules based on their risk of abuse or harm. Drug schedules fall under five categories and range from illegal to no risk of harm or abuse.
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Drugs that are considered controlled substances will be categorized in one of the five categories. Schedule I drugs have no accepted medical use in the United States and are therefore illegal. Schedule V drugs have a low potential for abuse compared to the other schedule of drugs.
Dilaudid falls into the Schedule II category, meaning it is part of the second most controlled category of drugs. Substances in Schedule II have a high potential for abuse that can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
Getting Help For Dilaudid Abuse And Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Dilaudid, know that help is available. While it may seem like an impossible task, overcoming opioid addiction and reclaiming your life is possible.
Many people who are addicted to opioids like Dilaudid will need to first enter into a detox program. This ensures that withdrawal from the drug is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Once a detox program has been successfully completed, there are a number of treatment options to choose from. One of the most successful types of treatment is inpatient programs. These programs are intensive and provide customized plans of recovery for each patient.
To learn more about whether Dilaudid is a controlled substance or opioid, or to learn more about treatment options for Dilaudid addiction, contact a treatment specialist today.
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