Pharmacokinetics of hydromorphone hydrochloride in healthy dogs

Hydromorphone has a short half-life, suggesting that frequent dosing intervals are needed. Based on pharmacokinetic parameters calculated in this study, 0.1 mg kg−1 IV or SC q 2 hours or a constant rate infusion of hydromorphone at 0.03 mg kg−1 hour−1 are suggested for future studies to assess the analgesic effect of hydromorphone.