the correct
pronunciation of the word dihydrocodeine (compound).
Note: Since these substances are related, please refer to Codeine Facts for more information on precautions, interactions, mechanism of action and effects.
Dihydrocodeine (DHC) is a synthetic opioid analgesic developed in the early 1900s. Its structure and pharmacokinetics are similar to that of codeine and it is used for the treatment of postoperative pain, severe breathlessness or as an antitussive.
Listen to the correct
pronunciation of the word dihydrocodeine (compound).
Related information: codeine precautions
Related information: codeine interactions
Dihydrocodeine can be administered orally, intramuscularly, subcutaneously (skin popping) and rectally.
Dihydrocodeine is approximately twice as potent as codeine; take this into consideration while dosing dihydrocodeine.
Related information: codeine dosage
The general effects profile is similar to that of codeine.
The cytochrome P450-2D6 (CYP2D6) is the major enzyme mediating O-demethylation of dihydrocodeine to dihydromorphine. In contrast, nordihydrocodeine formation is predominantly catalysed by cytochrome P450-3A (CYP3A).
The urinary secretion products consist of dihydronorcodeine, dihydromorphine, nordihydromorphine, dihydrocodeine glucuronide, and dihydronorcodeine-6-glucuronide. The major urinary metabolite is dihydrocodeine glucuronide (49%), and other metabolites are found to be in concentrations 0.1-3%.
With dihydrocodeine tablets that may include other substances, such as paracetamol, the extraction method is usually the same as with codeine. Read the chemistry section below for more information.
Following the administration of dihydrocodeine, the following substances can be detected up to 48 hours after (depends upon the dose, its frequency, route of administration and urine excretion/dilution): dihydrocodeine and small quantities of dihydromorphine.
Opioids can be detected in urine, blood, bile, hair, nails and sweat.
Dihydrocodeine can be synthesised from morphine by reduction of the 7,8-double bond.
| Name | Dihydrocodeine |
|---|---|
| Chemical name | 4,5-alpha-epoxy-3-methoxy-17-morphinan-6-ol |
| Alternative names | 6-hydroxy-3-methoxy-N-methyl-4,5-epoxymorphinan, 7,8-dihydro-codeine |
| CAS Number | 125-28-0 |
| Chemical formula | C18H23NO3 |
| Molecular weight | 301.42 |
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