dihydrocodeine

Dihydrocodeine is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic developed in Germany in 1908 and first marketed in 1911. It is prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain, including post-operative and dental pain, as well as chronic pain conditions when alternative treatments are inadequate. Dihydrocodeine is also used as an antitussive (cough suppressant) and for severe dyspnea (shortness of breath). Its mechanism of action involves binding primarily to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, modulating the perception of pain and suppressing the cough reflex. The drug is metabolized mainly by CYP2D6 into dihydromorphine (an active metabolite), which has a high affinity for mu-opioid receptors; it also undergoes N-demethylation via CYP3A4 to nordihydrocodeine. Dihydrocodeine can be habit-forming with potential for abuse and dependence[1][2][5][6][7].

Brand names

DvorahTrezix

Other names

DHC