From the Research
Effect of Food on Dihydrocodeine
- The effect of food on dihydrocodeine is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 1, 2, 3, 4.
- However, a study on the effects of food on bioavailability of analgesics, including opioids, suggests that most opioids do not have food restrictions and can be taken without regard to food 5.
- The study also notes that food can affect the rate, extent of absorption, or shape of concentration-time profile of a medication, which can alter the onset of action, duration of action, or tolerability of a medication 5.
- It is recommended that analgesic medication, including dihydrocodeine, be used as per labeled recommendations for proper pain management, taking into account the potential effects of food on the medication's pharmacokinetics 5.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Dihydrocodeine
- Dihydrocodeine is a semi-synthetic analogue of codeine, with a single bond instead of a double bond between carbons 7 and 8 1, 2.
- The analgesic effect of dihydrocodeine is similar to codeine and approximately twice as potent as tramadol for an oral route 1.
- Dihydrocodeine possesses approximately 1/6th of the morphine analgesic effect when administered orally 2.
- The metabolism of dihydrocodeine to dihydromorphine may not be of clinical importance for analgesia 3.
Clinical Use of Dihydrocodeine
- Dihydrocodeine is used as an analgesic, antitussive, and antidiarrheal agent, and for the treatment of opioid addiction 1, 2.
- The drug is commonly available, and appropriate titration and dosing, as well as knowledge of its metabolism and possible adverse effects, are important for safe prescription of dihydrocodeine 1.
- Dihydrocodeine can cause constipation, as well as other side effects such as tiredness, dry mouth, and vertigo 4.