Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate)

Drug #242

Dihydrocodeine is a mild narcotic analgesic and antitussive, also called as drocode. Chemically Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) is identified as 4, 5a-epoxy-3-methoxy-17-methylmorphinan-6a-ol. Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) is effective to relieve moderate to severe pain and swelling.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Opioid.

It belongs to OPIATE agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Analgesic pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 451.5 · pK_a: 8.8 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 4.5 freely soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: sparingly · Non-proprietary name: Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) · pH: 3.2.

Molecular structure of Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate)

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) has an oral bioavailability is 97.5% (±2.5%).

Distribution: Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) has a volume of distribution is 1.1 l/kg.

Elimination: it is metabolised via Liver, plasma half-life is 3.4-4.5 hr, renal excretion is major.

Indications

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Cough, Diarrhoea, Moderate to severe pain.

Contraindications

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) is contraindicated in conditions like Respiratory failure, Bronchospasm, Productive cough, Hepatic failure.

Dosage

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate)'s dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
37.5 mg	37.5 mg	—	IV	After dental surgery
0.571 mg/kg	0.571 mg/kg	Every 4h	PO	As Required
20 mg	20 mg	Every 8h	PO	for cough suppression.
50 mg	50 mg	Every 6h	Scor IM	Max dose 240 mg daily.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
0.8 mg/kg	0.8 mg/kg	Every 6h	Oral	Recommended for 5-12 Yrs of Children
0.5 – 1 mg/kg	—	—	PO	for 4 to 6 hourly . Max 30mg
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Dependence .

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bronchospasm , Bronchospasm. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) are Hypotension, Acute renal & hepatic impairment, Unconsciousness, Respiratory depression, Miosis, Respiratory depression, Myoclonic twitching, Hypoventilation , Respiratory depression.

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Constipation , Dizziness, Euphoria, Hallucination , Nausea, Sedation , Vomiting .

Warnings / Precautions

Dihydrocodeine should be used with caution in patients with diseases of the kidney, liver or heart, asthma or other breathing problems, stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, severe diarrhea, drug dependency and of any drug allergy. It should be used with caution while driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol consumption because it may add to the dizziness or drowsiness effects of this drug, heavy drinking of alcohol may make stomach and intestines more susceptible to the irritating effects of this medication increasing the risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding. This medication should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. This medication is not recommended during lactation.

Available Brands

None recorded.

Storage Conditions

Dihydrocodeine (Tartrate) should be stored Caps.

Drug Classification

1.2.2 — Opioid analgesics