Dihydrocodeine Tablets Special Precautions
Dihydrocodeine Tablets Special Precautions
Dihydrocodeine should be given in reduced doses or with caution to patients with asthma and decreased respiratory reserve. Avoid use during an acute asthma attack.
Dihydrocodeine should be avoided, or the dose reduced in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
Dihydrocodeine should be given in reduced doses or with caution to;
debiltated patients, adrenocortical insuffciency, prostatic hyperplasia, urethral stricture,hypotension, shock, inflammatory or obstructive bowel disorders, hypothyroidism orconvulsive disorders.
However, these conditions should not necessarily be a deterrent to use in palliative care.
Use in caution in those with a history of drug abuse.
Alcohol should be avoided whilst under treatment with dihydrocodeine.
Contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactose deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.
The risk-benefit of continued use should be assessed regularly by the prescriber.
The leaflet will state in a prominent position in the 'before taking' section:
• Do not take for longer than directed by your prescriber.
• Taking dihydrocodeine regularly for a long time can lead to addiction, which might cause you to feel restless and irritable when you stop the tablets.
• Taking a pain killer for headaches too often or for too long can make them worse.
The label will state (To be displayed prominently on outer pack – not boxed):
• Do not take for longer than directed by your prescriber as taking dihydrocodeine regularly for a long time can lead to addiction.
Dihydrocodeine Tablets Adverse Reactions
Dihydrocodeine Tablets Adverse Reactions
Skin disorders; rash, urticaria, pruritius, sweating.
Central and peripheral nervous system disorders; paraesthesia, dizziness, headache, vertigo, respiratory depression. Muscle rigidity has been reported after high doses.
Vision disorders; visual disturbances, miosis.
Psychiatric disorders; drowsiness, changes of mood, confusion, sexual dysfunction, hallucinations, euphoria.
Gastro-intestinal system disorders; dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation.
Liver and biliary system disorders; biliary spasm which may be associated with alterations in liver enzyme values.
Cardiovascular disorders general; hypotension.
Heart rate and rhythm disorders; bradycardia, tachycardia, palpitations.
Vascular (extracardiac) disorders; facial flushing.
Urinary systems disorders; Micturition may be difficult and there may be ureteric spasm.
Body as a whole, general; oedema.
• Regular prolonged use of dihydrocodeine is known to lead to addiction and tolerance. Symptoms of restlessness and irritability may result when treatment is then stopped.
• Prolonged use of a painkiller for headaches can make them worse.
Dihydrocodeine Tablets Contraindications
Dihydrocodeine Tablets Contraindications
• Hypersensitivity to dihydrocodeine or any of the excipients
• Respiratory depression
• Obstructive airways disease
• Acute alcoholism
• Risk of paralytic ileus
• Head injuries or conditions in which intracranial pressure is raised.
