pain
"I was hospitalized for 2 months with partial paralysis and neuropathy from an autoimmune syndrome. I had severe pain 7 to 9 on a scale of 1 to 10.  1mg IV Dilaudid every 4 hrs during the early part of my hospitalization with a saline flush erased my pain in minutes without creating drowsiness, mental impairment, or euphoria. I was able to think clearly and solve complex problems.  I was switched to the pills after a few weeks.  Dilaudid allowed me enough relief so I could go to sleep without distracting pain and wake up in the morning without residual effects.  YOUR CONSTITUTION MAY BE DIFFERENT. I was able to stop cold turkey after 2 months without withdrawal symptoms. Your experience may be different. Follow doctor's instructions EXACTLY."