You should not take hydromorphone if you have severe breathing problems, or a blockage in your stomach or intestines. Dilaudid 8 mg Hydromorphone can slow or stop your breathing, and may be habit-forming. Use only your prescribed dose, and swallow an extended-release pill whole to avoid a potentially fatal dose. Never share Dilaudid 8 mg with another person. MISUSE OF NARCOTIC MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription. Dilaudid 8 mg may cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother has taken this medicine during pregnancy. Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.