Dihydrocodeine is one of the most widely prescribed drugs for treating pain. However, it can also be addictive. It’s important to know how to identify the warning signs of addiction, and how to avoid taking it when possible.
Prescriptions
Dihydrocodeine prescriptions in the United Kingdom (UK) are on the rise. This rise is the result of increasing prescribing of opioids for non-malignant pain. In addition, the US opioid epidemic has affected UK health, leading to similar concerns. Moreover, misuse of DHC is on the rise. Specifically, overdose deaths from DHC misuse are on the rise.
However, previous studies have not addressed the extent of variation in prescribing practice in the UK. Interestingly, recent studies have identified regional differences in opioid prescribing. These findings offer potential levers for changing prescribing practices in specific subgroups of high risk patients.
To investigate the implications of opioid prescribing, we used a population-based study of the CPRD, a large database of electronic primary care records. The database is an anonymous database that captures prescription data from primary care physicians in the UK. It is a representative UK population health dataset.
The study objectives were to examine variation in long-term opioid use by region, and to identify the factors associated with it. We measured the odds of long-term opioid use by adjusting for case mix and comorbidities. Our study found that the odds of long-term opioid use were greatest in Yorkshire and the Humber, South West, and North West.
Long-term opioid use was also more likely among patients treated by prescribers who practiced at high intensity. This may suggest that clinicians should take a more careful approach in escalating the dose of opioids to higher levels at initiation.
Over-the-counter products
If you’re looking for an over-the-counter pain reliever to relieve a headache, you’ll want to look for the dihydrocodeine variant. This chemical is a derivative of codeine and is a potent analgesic, but may also cause some side effects.
It is possible to find over-the-counter codeine products that are legal to buy and use, but many countries are taking steps to reduce the risk of misuse. These products often contain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or paracetamol, along with a small amount of codeine.
While over-the-counter painkillers containing codeine can be used safely, they can also cause problems for the liver, heart, or kidneys. For this reason, you’ll want to limit the amount of codeine you take.
The FDA is taking action to stop companies from making and distributing these medicines. This includes ordering companies to stop selling over-the-counter products containing codeine. Also, they’re requiring manufacturers to get approval for all prescription medicines.
Of course, some of the products that are being made are being manufactured illegally, and they can lead to addiction. In order to prevent this from happening, the FDA is requiring that all prescription drugs undergo testing and approval.
As part of its testing and approval process, the FDA is introducing a suite of measures to better inform consumers about what’s out there. Some of these measures include changes to packaging, labeling, and advertising.
Warning signs of addiction
The drug dihydrocodeine is classified as an opioid. This is a substance that acts on the central nervous system, affecting the brain, nerves, and muscles. It is an addictive substance that can cause serious side effects.
Many young people use codeine for recreational purposes. Those who abuse it are more likely to be men. They start off taking the medication for mild pain, but as they continue to abuse it, they increase their tolerance and need more to achieve the same effect.
Although codeine is a less powerful opiate than other Opiates, it is still dangerous. Taking the medication in large amounts can lead to an overdose. Using dihydrocodeine can also lead to withdrawal symptoms when you suddenly stop taking it.
Symptoms of an overdose include drowsiness, shallow breathing, cold skin, lack of consciousness, loss of coordination, and choking noises. Besides these physical signs, you may also see behavioral changes.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, seek help immediately. A doctor can help you get off dihydrocodeine and find a treatment program.
Overdose can be life-threatening. The reversal agent naloxone can be administered to reverse the effects of an overdose. However, naloxone will not remove the drug from your body.
Depending on the severity of your dihydrocodeine addiction, you may need to go to an inpatient facility for treatment. Inpatient treatment is the most intense rehab option.