Who can and cannot 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.

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