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Guide
Drug Safety-related Labeling Changes (SrLC) Database
| ANDA | Abbreviated New Drug Application |
| BLA | Biologics License Application |
| CDER | Center for Drug Evaluation and Research |
| MG | Medication Guide |
| NDA | New Drug Application |
| PCI | Patient Counseling Information |
| PI | Patient Information |
| PLR | Physician Labeling Rule |
| PLLR | Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule |
| Italics | For the most part, italics indicate an FDA comment such as:
Additions and/or revisions underlined These italics usually appear at the beginning of the section. In some cases, italics may be an inherent part of the label, and will most often appear in the body of the section. |
| Underlines | Any text that is underlined indicates text that has been added or revised. There are exceptions where underlining occurs in a section subtitle or heading. This is the case when there is just one word underlined in the body of the text. |
Sections
| BW | Box Warning |
| WP | Warnings and Precautions all in one section (PLR-format) Warnings as one section (pre-PLR format) Precautions as one section (pre-PLR format) |
| AR | Adverse Reactions (in pre-PLR format, this may be a subheading under precautions). |
| DI | Drug Interactions (in pre-PLR format, this may be a subheading under precautions). |
| USP | Use in Specific Populations (Inclusive on one or more of the following: Pregnancy; Lactation (PLLR- format); Nursing Mothers (pre-PLLR format); Females and Males of Reproductive Potential (PLLR format only); Pediatric Use, Geriatric Use, Renal Impairment, Hepatic Impairment, Sex, Race (these last six may be a subheading of precautions if label in pre-PLLR format. |
| PCI/PI/MG | Patient Counseling Information (PLR format only) - summarizes the information that a health care provider should convey to a patient (or caregiver when applicable) when a counseling discussion is taking place (e.g., a physician prescribing a drug during an office visit, a nurse providing discharge instructions at a hospital, or a pharmacist conveying information at a pharmacy). Patient Information - FDA approved patient labeling. Medication Guide - paper handouts that come with many prescription medicines. The guides address issues that are specific to particular drugs and drug classes, and they contain FDA-approved information that can help patients avoid serious adverse events. |
Only NDAs and CDER regulated BLAs are included in this database. ANDAs are not included.
Applications that remain active, even if the product has been discontinued, undergo safety-related labeling changes.
HYDROMORPHONE HYDROCHLORIDE (NDA-200403)
(HYDROMORPHONE HYDROCHLORIDE)
Safety-related Labeling Changes Approved by FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER)
12/22/2025 (SUPPL-61)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.1 Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
…
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. Addiction can occur at recommended dosages and if the drug is misused or abused. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. In postmarketing studies, addiction, abuse, misuse, and fatal and non-fatal opioid overdose were observed in patients with long-term opioid use [see Adverse Reactions (6)].
…
5.2 Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of opioids, even when used as recommended. Respiratory depression, if not immediately recognized and treated, may lead to respiratory arrest and death. Management of respiratory depression may include close observation, supportive measures, and use of opioid overdose reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene), depending on the patient’s clinical status [see Overdosage (10)].…
5.3 Risks from Concomitant Use with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants
Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result from the concomitant use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection with benzodiazepines and/or other CNS depressants, including alcohol (e.g., non-benzodiazepine sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, gabapentinoids [gabapentin or pregabalin], and other opioids). Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
…
5.10 Risks of Gastrointestinal Complications
Section title revised
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
…
Cases of opioid-induced esophageal dysfunction (OIED) have been reported in patients taking opioids. The risk of OIED may increase as the dose and/or duration of opioids increases. Regularly evaluate patients for signs and symptoms of OIED (e.g., dysphagia, regurgitation, non-cardiac chest pain) and, if necessary, adjust opioid therapy as clinically appropriate [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].
5.12 Withdrawal
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
…
When discontinuing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, in a physically-dependent patient, gradually taper the dosage [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)]. Do not rapidly reduce or abruptly discontinue Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in these patients [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.3)].
6 Adverse Reactions
Extensive changes; please refer to label for complete information
7 Drug Interactions
Changes to Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection; please refer to label for complete information
8 Use in Specific Populations
8.1 Pregnancy
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
…
Labor or Delivery
Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic effects in neonates.
An opioid overdose reversal agent, such as naloxone or nalmefene, must be available for reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression in the neonate.
…
12/15/2023 (SUPPL-48)
Boxed Warning
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
WARNING: SERIOUS AND LIFE-THREATENING RISKS FROM USE OF HYDROMORPHONE HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTION
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Because the use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection exposes patients and other users to risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Assess each patient’s risk prior to prescribing and reassess all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors and conditions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection are essential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Risks From Concomitant Use With Benzodiazepines Or Other CNS Depressants
Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death Reserve concomitant prescribing of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), Drug Interactions (7)].
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS)
If opioid use is required for a prolonged extended period of time in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. Ensure that management by neonatology experts will be available at delivery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
4 Contraindications
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is contraindicated in patients with:
Significant respiratory depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment
[see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]
Hypersensitivity to hydromorphone (e.g., anaphylaxis) [see Adverse Reactions (6)]
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.4 Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
(Newly added subsection)
Use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection for an extended period of time during pregnancy can result in withdrawal in the neonate. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. Observe newborns for signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly. Advise pregnant women using opioids for an extended period of time of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that management by neonatology experts will be available at delivery [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
5.5 Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia and Allodynia
(Newly added subsection)
Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia (OIH) occurs when an opioid analgesic paradoxically causes an increase in pain, or an increase in sensitivity to pain. This condition differs from tolerance, which is the need for increasing doses of opioids to maintain a defined effect [see Dependence (9.3)]. Symptoms of OIH include (but may not be limited to) increased levels of pain upon opioid dosage increase, decreased levels of pain upon opioid dosage decrease, or pain from ordinarily non-painful stimuli (allodynia). These symptoms may suggest OIH only if there is no evidence of underlying disease progression, opioid tolerance, opioid withdrawal, or addictive behavior.
Cases of OIH have been reported, both with short-term and longer-term use of opioid analgesics. Though the mechanism of OIH is not fully understood, multiple biochemical pathways have been implicated. Medical literature suggests a strong biologic plausibility between opioid analgesics and OIH and allodynia. If a patient is suspected to be experiencing OIH, carefully consider appropriately decreasing the dose of the current opioid analgesic or opioid rotation (safely switching the patient to a different opioid moiety) [see Dosage and Administration (2.6), Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
5.6 Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression in Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease or in Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
The use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment is contraindicated.
…
Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection and when Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3), Drug Interactions (7)]. Alternatively, consider the use of non-opioid analgesics in these patients.
5.9 Risks of Use in Patients with Increased Intracranial Pressure, Brain Tumors, Head Injury, or Impaired Consciousness
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
In patients who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors), Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure. Monitor such patients for worsening of signs of increasing intracranial pressure. Monitor patients for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection.
Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury. Avoid the use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
6 Adverse Reactions
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
The following serious adverse reactions are described, or described in greater detail, in other sections:
- Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
- Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
- Interactions with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
- Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
- Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia and Allodynia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
- Adrenal Insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
- Severe Hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]
- Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions[see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]
- Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)]
- Withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]
The following adverse reactions associated with the use of hydromorphone were identified in clinical studies or postmarketing reports. Because some of these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
The most common adverse effects are light-headedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, sweating, flushing, dysphoria, euphoria, dry mouth, and pruritus. These effects seem to be more prominent in ambulatory patients and in those not experiencing severe pain.
…
Androgen deficiency: Cases of androgen deficiency have occurred with chronic use of opioids for an extended period of time.
Hyperalgesia and Allodynia: Cases of hyperalgesia and allodynia have been reported with opioid therapy of any duration. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
Hypoglycemia: Cases of hypoglycemia have been reported in patients taking opioids. Most reports were in patients with at least one predisposing risk factor (e.g., diabetes).
8 Use in Specific Populations
8.1 Pregnancy
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
Risk Summary
Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. There are no available data with Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage or adverse maternal outcomes.There are adverse outcomes reported with fetal exposure to opioid analgesics (see Clinical Considerations).
…
17 PCI/PI/MG (Patient Counseling Information/Patient Information/Medication Guide)
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
(Additions and/or revisions underlined)
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Inform patients that the use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Instruct patients not to share Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection with others and to take steps to protect Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection from theft or misuse.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, including information that the risk is greatest when starting Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended dosages [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Hyperalgesia and Allodynia
Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of hyperalgesia, including worsening pain, increased sensitivity to pain, or new pain [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Adverse Reactions (6)].
Serotonin Syndrome
Inform patients that opioids could cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome resulting from concomitant administration of serotonergic drugs. Warn patients of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome and to seek medical attention right away if symptoms develop after discharge from the hospital. Instruct patients to inform their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take serotonergic medications. [see Drug Interactions 7].
10/07/2019 (SUPPL-18)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.2 Life-Threatening Respiratory DepressionNewly added information to the end of the subsection:
Opioids can cause sleep-related breathing disorders including central sleep apnea (CSA) and sleep-related hypoxemia. Opioid use increases the risk of CSA in a dose-dependent fashion. In patients who present with CSA, consider decreasing the opioid dosage using best practices for opioid taper.
7 Drug Interactions
Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection
Serotonergic Drugs
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
Examples: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), triptans, 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, drugs that effect the serotonin neurotransmitter system (e.g., mirtazapine, trazodone, tramadol), certain muscle relaxants (i.e., cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone), monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (those intended to treat psychiatric disorders and also others, such as linezolid and intravenous methylene blue).
12/16/2016 (SUPPL-6)
Boxed Warning
(additions underlined)
WARNING: ADDICTION, ABUSE, AND MISUSE; LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION; NEONATAL OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME; and RISK FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH BENZODIAZEPINES OR OTHER CNS DEPRESSANTS
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection exposes patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Assess each patient’s risk prior to prescribing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, and monitor all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors and conditions.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection or following a dose increase.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Prolonged use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
Risks From Concomitant Use With Benzodiazepines Or Other CNS Depressants
Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.
• Reserve concomitant prescribing of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
• Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.
• Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
4 Contraindications
(additions underlined)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is contraindicated in patients with:
Significant respiratory depression
Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment
Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus
Hypersensitivity to hydromorphone (e.g., anaphylaxis)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.1 Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse(additions underlined)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection contains hydromorphone, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection exposes users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. Addiction can occur at recommended dosages and if the drug is misused or abused.
Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, and monitor all patients receiving Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection for the development of these behaviors and conditions. Risks are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol abuse or addiction) or mental illness (e.g., major depression). The potential for these risks should not, however, prevent the proper management of pain in any given patient. Patients at increased risk may be prescribed opioids such as Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks and proper use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
Opioids are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal diversion. Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity. Contact local state professional licensing board or state controlled substances authority for information on how to prevent and detect abuse or diversion of this product.
(subsection added)
The hydromorphone in Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders, and may increase the risk of seizures occurring in other clinical settings associated with seizures. Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection therapy.
(subsection added)
Avoid the use of mixed agonist/antagonist (e.g., pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) or partial agonist (e.g., buprenorphine) analgesics in patients who are receiving a full opioid agonist analgesic, including Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. In these patients, mixed agonist/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics may reduce the analgesic effect and/or precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
When discontinuing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, in a physically-dependent, gradually taper the dosage . Do not abruptly discontinue Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in these patients.
(subsection added)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may impair the mental or physical abilities needed to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating machinery. Warn patients not to drive or operate dangerous machinery unless they are tolerant to the effects of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection and know how they will react to the medication.
(subsection revised)
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of opioids, even when used as recommended. Respiratory depression, if not immediately recognized and treated, may lead to respiratory arrest and death. Management of respiratory depression may include close observation, supportive measures, and use of opioid antagonists, depending on the patient’s clinical status. Carbon dioxide (CO2) retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids.
While serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression can occur at any time during the use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dosage increase. Monitor patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy with and following dosage increases of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection.
To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection are essential. Overestimating the Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection dosage when converting patients from another opioid product can result in a fatal overdose with the first dose.
(additions underlined)
Prolonged use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection during pregnancy can result in withdrawal in the neonate. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life- threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. Observe newborns for signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly. Advise pregnant women using opioids for a prolonged period of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
(subsection revised)
Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result from the concomitant use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (e.g., non- benzodiazepine sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, other opioids, alcohol). Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioid analgesics alone. Because of similar pharmacological properties, it is reasonable to expect similar risk with the concomitant use of other CNS depressant drugs with opioid analgesics .
If the decision is made to prescribe a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant concomitantly with an opioid analgesic, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use. In patients already receiving an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid, and titrate based on clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is initiated in a patient already taking a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant, prescribe a lower initial dose of the opioid analgesic, and titrate based on clinical response. Follow patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (including alcohol and illicit drugs). Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use of the benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant have been determined. Screen patients for risk of substance use disorders, including opioid abuse and misuse, and warn them of the risk for overdose and death associated with the use of additional CNS depressants including alcohol and illicit drugs.
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately prescribed Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. Addiction can occur at recommended dosages and if the drug is misused or abused.
Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, and monitor all patients receiving Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection for the development of these behaviors and conditions. Risks are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol abuse or addiction) or mental illness (e.g., major depression). The potential for these risks should not, however, prevent the proper management of pain in any given patient. Patients at increased risk may be prescribed opioids such as Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about the risks and proper use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
Opioids are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal diversion. Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity. Contact local state professional licensing board or state controlled substances authority for information on how to prevent and detect abuse or diversion of this product.
The use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment is contraindicated.
Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease: Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection-treated patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and those with a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or pre-existing respiratory depression are at increased risk of decreased respiratory drive including apnea, even at recommended dosages of hydromorphone
Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients: Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients because they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients. Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection and when Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration. Alternatively, consider the use of non-opioid analgesics in these patients.
(subsection added)
Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use. Presentation of adrenal insufficiency may include non-specific symptoms and signs including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If adrenal insufficiency is suspected, confirm the diagnosis with diagnostic testing as soon as possible. If adrenal insufficiency is diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement doses of corticosteroids. Wean the patient off of the opioid to allow adrenal function to recover and continue corticosteroid treatment until adrenal function recovers. Other opioids may be tried as some cases reported use of a different opioid without recurrence of adrenal insufficiency. The information available does not identify any particular opioids as being more likely to be associated with adrenal insufficiency.
(subsection revised)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory patients. There is increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs (e.g. phenothiazines or general anesthetics). Monitor these patients for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dosage of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection. In patients with circulatory shock, Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure. Avoid the use of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection in patients with circulatory shock.
(subsection revised)
In patients who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors), Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure. Monitor such patients for signs of sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection.
Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury. Avoid the use of Hydromorphone
Hydrochloride Injection in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
(subsection revised)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus.
The hydromorphone in Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi. Opioids may cause increases in serum amylase. Monitor patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis, for worsening symptoms.
6 Adverse Reactions
(additions underlined)
The following serious adverse reactions are described, or described in greater detail, in other sections:
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Interactions with CNS Benzodiazepines and Depressants
Adrenal Insufficiency
Severe Hypotension
Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions
Seizures
Withdrawal The following adverse reactions associated with the use of hydromorphone were identified in clinical studies or postmarketing reports. Because some of these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Serotonin syndrome: Cases of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, have been reported during concomitant use of opioids with serotonergic drugs.
Adrenal insufficiency: Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use.
Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Injection.
Androgen deficiency: Cases of androgen deficiency have occurred with chronic use of opioids.
7 Drug Interactions
(Extensive additions and revisions, please refer to Table 1 in label)
8 Use in Specific Populations
8.1 Pregnancy(PLLR conversion, please refer to label)
(PLLR conversion)
Risk Summary
Low levels of opioid analgesics have been detected in human milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection or from the underlying maternal condition.
Clinical Considerations
Monitor infants exposed to Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection through breast milk for excess sedation and respiratory depression. Withdrawal symptoms can occur in breastfed infants when maternal administration of hydromorphone is stopped, or when breast-feeding is stopped.
(PLLR conversion)
Infertility
Chronic use of opioids may cause reduced fertility in females and males of reproductive potential. It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible.
(additions underlined)
Elderly patients (aged 65 years or older) may have increased sensitivity to hydromorphone. In general, use caution when selecting a dosage for an elderly patient, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Respiratory depression is the chief risk for elderly patients treated with opioids, and has occurred after large initial doses were administered to patients who were not opioid-tolerant or when opioids were co-administered other agents that depress respiration. Titrate the dosage of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection slowly in geriatric patients and monitor closely for signs of central nervous system and respiratory depression.
Hydromorphone is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.
(subsection revised)
The pharmacokinetics of hydromorphone are affected by renal impairment. In addition, in patients with severe renal impairment, hydromorphone appeared to be more slowly eliminated with a longer terminal elimination half-life. Start patients with renal impairment on one-fourth to one-half the usual starting dose depending on the degree of impairment. Patients with renal impairment should be closely monitored during dose titration.
17 PCI/PI/MG (Patient Counseling Information/Patient Information/Medication Guide)
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION(section added)
Serotonin Syndrome
Inform patients that opioids could cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition resulting from concomitant administration of serotonergic drugs. Warn patients of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome and to seek medical attention right away if symptoms develop. Instruct patients to inform their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take serotonergic medications.
Constipation
Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention
Other
(Revisions to the Package Insert to incorporate the opioid analgesic template language)