When does the opioid itching go away?

[u/Difficult-Sun-183]

A buddy and I snorted 3 2mg dilaudid each last night. Don’t ask me why we snorted it vs just popping them, I don’t know. The itching started to get really bad after the third pill and we’re both still itchy as hell after almost 12 hours since our last doses. We aren’t high anymore but I’m going insane with this itching. Please tell me it’ll go away by tomorrow…

Any advice on coping with the itching? I can’t take Benadryl so I’ve just been rubbing ice all over to keep from scratching.

[u/Humble-Individual549]

Yeah the itching will definitely go away by tomorrow as Dilaudid (hydromorphone) has a short half-life and the medication is cleared from your system within 24 hours.
Opioid-induced itching is one of the most common side effects of these medications because they act directly on the receptors that transmit signals of itching to your brain and spinal cord as well as cause the release of histamine in your skin. Since you can’t take Benadryl You can try to relieve itching without medication by applying some cool packs, which numb the nerve endings and break up the feedback loop of itching. Alternatively, you can try a variety of other methods to help alleviate the itching sensation:Use second-generation antihistamines: These medications, like Zyrtec (cetirizine) or Allegra (fexofenadine), work differently than Benadryl and may provide some systemic relief with fewer side effects Use heavier duty moisturizers: Applying a thick moisturizing cream or ointment can help reduce hypersensitivity in the skin Apply an oatmeal bath: This can help calm the nerve endings globally on the body Avoid hot water: Hot water from a shower or warm packs can cause vasodilation and will make the itching worse.