Key takeaways
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) and morphine (MS Contin) are both opioid medications used to relieve pain when non-opioid medications aren't enough. They work by attaching to mu-opioid receptors in the brain to change how you react to pain. Both medications are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms, and they can be taken orally (tables or liquid solution) or as rectal suppositories. Both are also available as injectable forms, for administration by a healthcare professional. However, there are some differences between them. They come in different dosages—the typical starting dose for immediate-release hydromorphone is 2 mg to 4 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed. The usual starting dose for morphine is 15 mg to 30 mg every 4 hours as needed. Both medications can cause side effects like constipation, drowsiness, and slowed breathing. Both medications are controlled substances and have a risk of addiction and misuse, and they require careful management to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
