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