1) As an analgesic for the relief of moderate to severe pain. Dihydrocodeine Tablets 30mg are indicated in all painful conditions where an alert patient is desired, eg sciatica, osteo-arthritis, chronic rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis of the spine, peripheral vascular disease, post-herpetic neuralgia, Paget's disease, malignant disease, post-operative pain.
Because dihydrocodeine, in the recommended doses, causes little or no respiratory depression, its use in the treatment of post-operative pain may reduce the risk of chest complications.
Posology
The analgesic effect is not materially enhanced by increasing the dose above that recommended below; in severe cases the interval between doses should be reduced to obtain the requisite analgesic cover.
Adults and children over 12 years: 1 tablet every four to six hours or at the discretion of the practitioner. Maximum dose in 24 hours 180mg (6 tablets).
Paediatric population: A more suitable dosage form is recommended for children under 12 years (e.g. elixir).
Elderly: Dosage should be reduced in the elderly.
• Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.
• Respiratory depression
• Obstructive airways disease
• Acute alcoholism
• Risk of paralytic ileus
• Head injuries or conditions in which intracranial pressure is raised.
