Description
Dihydrocodeine is an opioid painkiller. It’s used to treat moderate to severe pain, such as after an operation or a serious injury.
It’s also used for long-term pain if weaker painkillers, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin, have not worked.
It works by blocking pain signals from the central nervous system and the brain.
Dihydrocodeine is only available on prescription.
It comes as standard tablets, slow-release tablets and as a liquid that you swallow. It can also be given by an injection into the muscle or under the skin. This is usually done in hospital.
Co-dydramol, Paramol, Remedeine and Remedeine Forte are brand names that contain dihydrocodeine and paracetamol.
Who can take dihydrocodeine
Most adults can take dihydrocodeine. Although it can be given to children from the age of 1 year, it is usually only given to children aged 4 and over.
Who may not be able to take dihydrocodeine
Dihydrocodeine is not suitable for some people. To make sure it’s safe for you, tell a pharmacist or doctor before taking the medicine if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to dihydrocodeine or any other medicine
- have any stomach problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn’s disease, or if you’re taking medicines for these conditions
- have lung problems, asthma, breathing difficulties or allergies
- have a head injury or a condition that causes seizures or fits
- have an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)
- have an addiction to alcohol
- have liver or kidney problems
- have myasthenia gravis, a rare illness that causes muscle weakness
- are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant or are breastfeeding
- are under 18 years and have had your tonsils or adenoids taken out to treat obstructive sleep apnoea
- have a rare condition causing problems with galactose intolerance
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