About dihydrocodeine

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.