An A-Z Guide to Dihydrocodeine

Dihydrocodeine is a commonly prescribed opioid painkiller used for relieving moderate to severe pain. This A-Z guide provides everything you need to know about this medication, its uses, side effects, and more.

A - Addiction

Dihydrocodeine, like other opioids, can be addictive if not used correctly. When used for an extended period or without proper guidance, there is a risk of developing dependence (Roussin et al., 2016). If you're prescribed dihydrocodeine, your doctor may provide a plan to safely stop using the medication when appropriate.

B - Buying Dihydrocodeine Online

Dihydrocodeine is a prescription-only medication, which means you need a valid prescription to obtain it legally. PharmXtra provides a convenient online service where you can obtain dihydrocodeine after completing a successful online consultation with a healthcare provider.

C - Codeine

Dihydrocodeine is a semi-synthetic version of codeine, another opioid painkiller. While both medications work to relieve pain, dihydrocodeine is stronger and provides more euphoric effects, increasing the potential for dependence.

D - Dihydrocodeine Facts

Here are some key facts about dihydrocodeine that you should know:

• It blocks pain signals from reaching the brain

• It typically takes 1 to 2 hours to work fully

• Dependence on dihydrocodeine is possible

• Store dihydrocodeine in a cool, dry place, out of the reach of children

E - Easing Symptoms

Dihydrocodeine is effective at easing moderate to severe pain that hasn't been relieved by over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol (Anekar et al., 2023). It can help reduce pain from conditions like injury, surgery, or chronic pain.

F - Finances

The cost of dihydrocodeine at PharmXtra is:

• £59.99 for 28 tablets (30mg)

• £109.99 for 100 tablets (30mg)

The cost of one tablet starts at 69p. Prices are accurate as of 11/09/23.

G - Getting a Prescription

To purchase dihydrocodeine from PharmXtra, you need to complete an online consultation. This consultation is reviewed by a healthcare professional to ensure that the medication is appropriate for you.

H - How To Use Dihydrocodeine

Dihydrocodeine tablets should be taken orally with water, preferably with food to reduce potential side effects (Padrid & Church, 2009).

I - Interactions With Other Medications

Certain medications can interfere with how dihydrocodeine works. Always inform your doctor if you’re taking any of the following:

• Sleeping pills

• Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications

• Antihistamines

J - Joint Medications

It’s safe to take dihydrocodeine with other painkillers like ibuprofen, paracetamol, and aspirin, but avoid taking it with other medications containing codeine, as this could increase the risk of side effects.

K - Keeping Your Medication Stored

Always store dihydrocodeine in a safe place, out of reach of children. Dispose of any unused medication properly by taking it to a pharmacy.

L - Lower Strength Alternatives

If you need less potent pain relief, lower-strength painkillers like ibuprofen, paracetamol, and aspirin can be used for milder pain. Codeine, however, requires a prescription, unlike the others.

M - Moderate Pain

Dihydrocodeine is typically prescribed for moderate pain, such as pain following an injury or surgery. It’s stronger than common over-the-counter painkillers and can be more effective for pain that disrupts daily activities.

N - Necessary Consultation

Before purchasing dihydrocodeine from PharmXtra, you must complete an online consultation to confirm that the medication is suitable for you.

O - Opioid Medications

Dihydrocodeine belongs to the opioid class of pain medications, which are derived from the poppy plant or synthesised in labs (Cohen et al., 2023). These drugs work by altering the way the brain and body perceive pain.

P - Precautions

Before starting dihydrocodeine, you should inform your doctor about any other medications you take regularly. Do not use it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain health conditions.

Q - Quitting Opioid Medications

When prescribed opioid medications, including dihydrocodeine, you may be given a plan to safely discontinue use once treatment is complete (Buckle, 2015).

R - Relieving Severe Pain

Dihydrocodeine is effective for severe pain as well. It’s often considered a second-line option for persistent pain that hasn’t been managed well with other medications (Dydyk & Conermann, 2023).

S - Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Constipation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Tiredness

• Dizziness

• Headaches

Consult your doctor if you experience more severe side effects, such as muscle stiffness or low energy.

T - Treating Other Conditions

Dihydrocodeine is primarily used to treat moderate to severe pain. Although it’s occasionally prescribed for dyspnoea (difficulty breathing) in specific cases, it’s not commonly used for conditions other than pain.

U - Using Dihydrocodeine Correctly

Always follow the prescribed dosage and instructions from your doctor. Take dihydrocodeine exactly as directed, and never take more than recommended.

V - Versus Other Painkillers

Compared to other painkillers, dihydrocodeine is stronger than ibuprofen, paracetamol, and aspirin. However, stronger painkillers like morphine or diamorphine are more potent.

W - Who Can Take Dihydrocodeine?

People with the following conditions may not be able to take dihydrocodeine:

• Allergic reactions to medications

• Lung problems (e.g., asthma)

• Liver or kidney problems

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Severe digestive conditions like IBS

X - e(X)pected Results

When you first take dihydrocodeine, expect it to work within 1 to 2 hours. However, side effects like constipation, nausea, and dizziness can also occur.

Y - Your Conditions

If you're unsure whether dihydrocodeine is suitable for your condition, consult your doctor. It is mainly used for moderate to severe pain across a range of conditions.

Z - Zeroing in on Pain

Dihydrocodeine works by blocking pain receptors in the brain. While it doesn't "zero in" on pain in a targeted way, it alters how the central nervous system perceives pain, providing relief.

Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
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