What is Dihydrocodeine?

Opioid Dihydrocodeine is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for pain or severe dyspnea, or as an antitussive, either alone or compounded with paracetamol (acetaminophen) (as in co-dydramol) or aspirin. It was developed in Germany in 1908 and first marketed in 1911. Commonly available as ta

How long does Dihydrocodeine last?

The total duration of Dihydrocodeine via oral is 3 hours to 4 hours.

Dihydrocodeine — SubstanceWiki

SubstanceWiki

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How It Feels

Dihydrocodeine occupies the same gentle territory as its parent compound, codeine, but with a noticeable step up in depth and warmth. The onset takes thirty to forty-five minutes, a patient unfolding that begins with a diffuse heat in the abdomen and spreads outward in concentric waves. Where codeine whispers, dihydrocodeine speaks at a conversational volume -- still restrained, still polite, but with an authority that makes its presence felt more distinctly.

The warmth arrives with more substance than codeine can muster. It settles into the muscles with genuine weight, loosening tension with a purposefulness that feels almost therapeutic. The body grows heavy in a pleasant way, gravity becoming a comfort rather than an obligation. There is a pull toward stillness, toward sitting or lying down and letting the warmth do its work undisturbed. The drowsiness is more pronounced here, a soft, cottony fog that settles over consciousness and makes the boundary between waking and sleeping deliciously unclear.

Emotionally, dihydrocodeine produces a reliable contentment that stops well short of euphoria but exceeds simple indifference. Anxieties quiet down. The mental chatter that normally fills idle moments grows softer, replaced by a gentle, undemanding awareness. Music gains a subtle richness. Conversations feel warmer, easier, less fraught with the minor social anxieties that normally accompany them. There is a sense of being wrapped in something protective, an invisible buffer between yourself and the sharper edges of experience.

The peak lasts three to four hours and has a steady, plateau-like character. The warmth holds its ground without surging or fading, maintaining a consistent level of comfort that allows for gentle activity or complete rest, as the mood dictates. Mild nausea may appear, particularly in the first hour, along with the faint tickle of opioid-mediated histamine release on the skin. Pupils constrict modestly. Constipation makes itself known as a background discomfort, easy to ignore in the moment but persistent in its quiet way.

The comedown is gradual and merciful. The warmth thins out over the course of an hour or two, leaving behind a residual drowsiness and a sense of physical ease that persists well after the primary effects have faded. There is no harsh return to baseline, no rebound anxiety -- just a slow, dignified retreat that allows you to re-enter ordinary consciousness without any sense of loss. Sleep, if pursued, is deep and satisfying, often accompanied by vivid dreams that carry the faintest echo of the warmth that preceded them.

Subjective Effects

The effects listed below are based on the Subjective Effect Index (SEI), an open research literature based on anecdotal reports and personal analyses. They should be viewed with a healthy degree of skepticism. These effects will not necessarily occur in a predictable or reliable manner, although higher doses are more liable to induce the full spectrum of effects.

Physical Effects

Physical(14)

Appetite suppression— A distinct decrease in hunger and desire to eat, ranging from reduced interest in food to complete d...
Constipation— A slowing or cessation of bowel movements resulting in difficulty passing stool, commonly caused by ...
Cough suppression— A decreased desire and need to cough, medically known as antitussive action, which can also allow in...
Headache— A painful sensation of pressure, throbbing, or aching in the head that can range from a dull backgro...
Increased heart rate— A noticeable acceleration of heartbeat that can range from a subtle awareness of one's pulse to a fo...
Itchiness— A persistent, diffuse urge to scratch the skin that arises without any external irritant, most commo...
Motor control loss— A distinct decrease in the ability to control one's physical body with precision, balance, and coord...
Nausea— An uncomfortable sensation of queasiness and stomach discomfort that may or may not lead to vomiting...
Pain relief— A suppression of negative physical sensations such as aches and pains, ranging from dulled awareness...
Physical euphoria— An intensely pleasurable bodily sensation that can manifest as waves of warmth, tingling electricity...
Pupil constriction— A visible narrowing of the pupil diameter (miosis) that reduces the size of the dark center of the e...
Respiratory depression— A dangerous slowing and shallowing of breathing that can progress from barely noticeable reductions ...
Sedation— A state of deep physical and mental calming that manifests as a progressive desire to remain still, ...
Seizure— Uncontrolled brain electrical activity causing convulsions and loss of consciousness -- a life-threa...

Cognitive & Perceptual Effects

Visual(1)

Double vision— The visual experience of seeing a single object as two separate, overlapping images, similar to cros...

Cognitive(7)

Amnesia— A complete or partial inability to form new memories or recall existing ones during and after substa...
Anxiety— Intense feelings of apprehension, worry, and dread that can range from a subtle background unease to...
Anxiety suppression

Pharmacology

low toxicity relative to dose. As with all opiates, long-term effects can vary but can include diminished libido, apathy and memory loss. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to dihydrocodeine, such as the swelling of skin and rashes. It is also lethal when mixed with depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines]].

It is strongly recommended that one use harm reduction practices when using this drug.

As with other opioids,moderately addictive with a high potential for abuse and is capable of causing psychological dependence among certain users. When addiction has developed, cravings and withdrawal symptoms may occur if a person suddenly stops their usage.develops with prolonged and repeated use. The rate at which this occurs develops at different rates for different effects, with tolerance to the constipation-inducing effects developing particularly slowly for instance. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that,3 - 71 - 2 weeks to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). Dihydrocodeine presents cross-tolerance with Cross-all other opioids, meaning that after the consumption of dihydrocodeine all opioids will have a reduced effect.

Austria:** Dihydrocodeine is legal for medical use under the AMG (Arzneimittelgesetz Österreich) and illegal when sold or possessed without a prescription under the SMG (Suchtmittelgesetz Österreich).
Australia:** Dihydrocodeine is a Schedule 3 medicine meaning it is available without prescription but is stored behind the counter at a pharmacy. Consultation with pharmacist is required for purchase. It is most commonly available as an oral liquid (Brand name Rikodeine) at a dose of 19mg/10mL in 100 or 200mL bottles.
Germany:** Dihydrocodeine is a controlled substance under Anlage III of the BtMG. It can only be prescribed on a narcotic prescription form. There is an exception for preperations, containing up to 2,5% or 100mg dihydrocodeine per unit, which can be prescripted on a regular prescription, if not prescripted to an alcohol or drug dependent person.
Hong Kong:** In Hong Kong, dihydrocodeine is regulated under Schedule 1 of Hong Kong's Chapter 134 Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. It can only be used legally by health professionals and for university research purposes. A pharmacist can dispense Dihydrocodeine when furnished with a doctors prescription. Anyone who supplies the substance without a prescription can be fined $10000 (HKD). The penalty for trafficking or manufacturing the substance is a $5,000,000 (HKD) fine and life imprisonment. Possession of the substance for consumption, without a licence from the Department of Health, is illegal and carries a $1,000,000 (HKD) fine and/or 7 years imprisonment.
Japan:** In Japan, dihydrocodeine is available without a prescription; used in cough medicines such as New Bron Solution-ACE. Dihydrocodeine is used as an antitussive in many products as a Dextromethorphan alternative. Medicines in Japan which contain dihydrocodeine are coupled with caffeine to offset the sedative effects and discourage recreational use. Cough medicines containing dihydrocodeine are controlled similarly to dextromethorphan in the United States, in that its sale is strictly limited by purchase quantity and is restricted to persons 20 and older for purchase.
Russia:** Dihydrocodeine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
Sweden: Dihydrocodeine is a prescription only medication.
Switzerland: Dihydrocodeine is a controlled substance specifically named under Verzeichnis A. Medicinal use is permitted. Some preparations containing dihydrocodeine are included in Verzechnis C, while certain ones are excluded.
United Kingdom:** In the United Kingdom, dihydrocodeine is a Class B drug; but, it is available over-the-counter in small amounts (less than 8 mg), when combined with paracetamol (see co-dydramol). Dihydrocodeine is listed in Schedule 5 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 whereby it is exempt from prohibition on possession provided that it is in the form of a single preparation not being designed for injection and less than 100 mg (calculated as free base) or with a total concentration less than 2.5% (calculated as free base). Illegal possession of dihydrocodeine can result in up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine.
United States:** In the USA, dihydrocodeine is a DEA Schedule II substance, although preparations containing small amounts of dihydrocodeine are classified as Schedule III or Schedule V, depending on the concentration of dihydrocodeine relative to other active constituents, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen). This scheduling is similar to the UK's. The DEA's ACSCN for dihydrocodeine free base and all salts is 9120. The 2013 annual aggregate manufacturing quota is 250 kilos.
Responsible use
Extraction of opioids from painkiller products
Codeine
Opioid
Dihydrocodeine (Wikipedia)
Dihydrocodeine (Erowid Vault)
Dihydrocodeine (Isomer Design)
Dihydrocodeine (DrugBank)
Dihydrocodeine (Drugs.com)
Schmidt, H., Vormfelde, S. V., Klinder, K., Gundert-Remy, U., Gleiter, C. H., Skopp, G., Aderjan, R. and Fuhr, U. (2002), Affinities of Dihydrocodeine and its Metabolites to Opioid Receptors. Pharmacology & Toxicology, 91: 57–63. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0773.2002.910203.x
Koch T, Höllt V (2008). Role of receptor internalization in opioid tolerance and dependence. Pharmacol. Ther. 117 (2): 199–206. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2007.10.003
Pert, C. B., Pasternak, G., & Snyder, S. H. (1973). Opiate Agonists and Antagonists Discriminated by Receptor Binding in Brain. Science, 182 (4119), 1359-1361. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.182.4119.1359
Friswell J, Phillips C, Holding J, Morgan CJ, Brandner B, Curran HV (2008). Acute effects of opioids on memory functions of healthy men and women. Psychopharmacology (Berl.). 198 (2): 243–50. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-008-1123-x.
Stefano GB, Ptáček R, Kuželová H, Kream RM (2012). Endogenous morphine: up-to-date review (2011). Folia Biol. (Praha). 58 (2): 49–56. PMID 22578954.

Detection Methods

Standard Drug Panel Inclusion

Dihydrocodeine is a natural or semi-synthetic opiate that is detected on standard 5-panel drug screens under the opiates channel. The standard opiate immunoassay targets morphine and codeine as primary analytes, and Dihydrocodeine or its metabolites will trigger a positive result due to structural similarity to the morphine backbone. Most workplace, clinical, and probation drug tests include opiate detection at a 2000 ng/mL or 300 ng/mL cutoff.

Urine Detection

Dihydrocodeine can be detected in urine for approximately 2 to 3 days after the last dose. The primary metabolic pathways involve glucuronidation, O-demethylation, and N-demethylation. Key urinary metabolites include glucuronide conjugates and, depending on the specific compound, morphine or hydromorphone as downstream metabolites. Hydration status, urinary pH, body mass, and metabolic rate all influence the exact detection window.

Blood and Saliva Detection

Dihydrocodeine is detectable in blood for approximately 6 to 24 hours after administration. Oral fluid (saliva) testing can detect Dihydrocodeine for approximately 24 to 48 hours post-dose. Blood and oral fluid testing are most commonly used in emergency medicine, pain management compliance monitoring, and roadside testing programs.

Hair Follicle Detection

Hair follicle testing can detect Dihydrocodeine for up to 90 days (approximately 1.5 inches of hair growth). Opiate incorporation into hair is well-characterized, and most commercial hair testing panels include the opiates category. A standard hair test screens for codeine, morphine, and 6-monoacetylmorphine; Dihydrocodeine or its metabolites will typically be captured under this panel.

Confirmatory Testing

Immunoassay screening results for opiates are confirmed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These methods can distinguish between specific opiates, identifying Dihydrocodeine and its metabolites with high specificity. Confirmation testing eliminates false positives from poppy seed consumption or structural analogues.

Reagent Testing

Marquis reagent produces a purple to violet color with Dihydrocodeine, consistent with the morphine-class opiate reaction. Mecke reagent yields a deep blue-green to blue color. Mandelin reagent produces a grey-brown reaction. These reagent responses are characteristic of the opiate class and can help differentiate opiates from synthetic opioids, which may show different or no reactions.

Interactions

Substance	Status	Note
3-Cl-PCP	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
3-HO-PCE	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
3-HO-PCP	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
3-MeO-PCE	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
3-MeO-PCMo	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
3-MeO-PCP	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
4-MeO-PCP	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Alcohol	Dangerous	—
Atropa belladonna	Dangerous	Compounding CNS depression with anticholinergic effects; risk of cardiac events and respiratory failure
Benzodiazepines	Dangerous	—
Cake	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
Datura	Dangerous	Compounding CNS depression with anticholinergic effects; risk of cardiac events and respiratory failure
Deschloroetizolam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Deschloroketamine	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Desomorphine	Dangerous	Compounding respiratory depression and overdose risk
Diclazepam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Diphenhydramine	Dangerous	Compounding CNS depression with anticholinergic effects; risk of cardiac events and respiratory failure
Diphenidine	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Ephenidine	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Eszopiclone	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
Etizolam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Flubromazepam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Flubromazolam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Flunitrazepam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Flunitrazolam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Gaboxadol	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
GBL	Dangerous	—
GHB	Dangerous	—
Harmala alkaloid	Dangerous	Risk of serotonin syndrome and severe respiratory depression; potentially fatal
HXE	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Inhalants	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Ketamine	Dangerous	—
Lorazepam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Memantine	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Mephenaqualone	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
Metizolam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
Midazolam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths
MXiPr	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Naloxone	Dangerous	Compounding respiratory depression and overdose risk
Nicotine	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
Nifoxipam	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
O-PCE	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
PCE	Dangerous	Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration
Peganum harmala	Dangerous	Risk of serotonin syndrome and severe respiratory depression; potentially fatal
Pentobarbital	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
Phenobarbital	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
SAMe	Dangerous	Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose
3-FMA	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
4-MMC	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
8-Chlorotheophylline	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Adrafinil	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Benzydamine	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Bromantane	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Dichloropane	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Ephedrine	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Hexedrone	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Methcathinone	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Oxiracetam	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Phenylpiracetam	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Rhodiola Rosea	Caution	Stimulants mask opioid sedation, increasing overdose risk when the stimulant wears off
Nitrous	Uncertain	—
Psilocybin Mushrooms	Low Risk & No Synergy	No significant pharmacological interaction; opioids may slightly dull the psychedelic experience

Showing 62 key interactions out of 82 total.

Toxicity & Safety

Dihydrocodeine has a low toxicity relative to dose. As with all opiates, long-term effects can vary but can include diminished libido, apathy and memory loss. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to dihydrocodeine, such as the swelling of skin and rashes. It is also potentially lethal when mixed with depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.

It is strongly recommended that one use harm reduction practices when using this drug.

Tolerance and addiction potential

As with other opioids, the chronic use of dihydrocodeine can be considered moderately addictive with a high potential for abuse and is capable of causing psychological dependence among certain users. When addiction has developed, cravings and withdrawal symptoms may occur if a person suddenly stops their usage.

Tolerance to many of the effects of dihydrocodeine develops with prolonged and repeated use. The rate at which this occurs develops at different rates for different effects, with tolerance to the constipation-inducing effects developing particularly slowly for instance. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about 3 - 7 days for the tolerance to be reduced to half and 1 - 2 weeks to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). Dihydrocodeine presents cross-tolerance with all other opioids, meaning that after the consumption of dihydrocodeine all opioids will have a reduced effect.

Dangerous interactions

Warning: Many psychoactive substances that are reasonably safe to use on their own can suddenly become dangerous and even life-threatening when combined with certain other substances. The following list provides some known dangerous interactions (although it is not guaranteed to include all of them).

Always conduct independent research (e.g. Google, DuckDuckGo, PubMed) to ensure that a combination of two or more substances is safe to consume. Some of the listed interactions have been sourced from TripSit.

Alcohol - Both substances potentiate the ataxia and sedation caused by the other and can lead to unexpected loss of consciousness at high doses. Place affected patients in the recovery position to prevent vomit aspiration from excess. Memory blackouts are likely
Stimulants - Stimulants increase respiration rate which allows for a higher dose of opiates than would otherwise be used. If the stimulant wears off first then the opiate may overcome the user and cause respiratory arrest.
Benzodiazepines - Central nervous system and/or respiratory-depressant effects may be additively or synergistically present. The two substances potentiate each other strongly and unpredictably, very rapidly leading to unconsciousness. While unconscious, vomit aspiration is a risk if not placed in the recovery position blackouts/memory loss likely.
DXM - Generally considered to be toxic. CNS depression, difficulty breathing, heart issues, and liver toxicity have been observed. Additionally if one takes DXM, their tolerance of opiates goes down slightly, thus causing additional synergistic effects.
GHB/GBL - The two substances potentiate each other strongly and unpredictably, very rapidly leading to unconsciousness. While unconscious, vomit aspiration is a risk if not placed in the recovery position
Ketamine - Both substances bring a risk of vomiting and unconsciousness. If the user falls unconscious while under the influence there is a severe risk of vomit aspiration if they are not placed in the recovery position.
MAOIs - Coadministration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) with certain opioids has been associated with rare reports of severe adverse reactions. There appear to be two types of interaction, an excitatory and a depressive one. Symptoms of the excitatory reaction may include agitation, headache, diaphoresis, hyperpyrexia, flushing, shivering, myoclonus, rigidity, tremor, diarrhea, hypertension, tachycardia, seizures, and coma. Death has occurred in some cases.
MXE - MXE can potentiate the effects of opioids but also increases the risk of respiratory depression and organ toxicity.
Nitrous - Both substances potentiate the ataxia and sedation caused by the other and can lead to unexpected loss of consciousness at high doses. While unconscious, vomit aspiration is a risk if not placed in the recovery position. Memory blackouts are common.
PCP - PCP may reduce opioid tolerance, increasing the risk of overdose.
Tramadol - Increased risk of seizures. Tramadol itself is known to induce seizures and it may have additive effects on seizure threshold with other opioids. Central nervous system- and/or respiratory-depressant effects may be additively or synergistically present.
Grapefruit - While grapefruit is not psychoactive, it may affect the metabolism of certain opioids. Tramadol, oxycodone, and fentanyl are all primarily metabolized by the enzyme CYP3A4, which is potently inhibited by grapefruit juice. This may cause the drug to take longer to clear from the body. it may increase toxicity with repeated doses. Methadone may also be affected. Codeine and hydrocodone are metabolized by CYP2D6. People who are on medicines that inhibit CYP2D6, or that lack the enzyme due to a genetic mutation will not respond to codeine as it can not be metabolized into its active product: morphine.

Addiction Potential

moderately addictive with a high potential for abuse

Overdose Information

Opioid overdose from Dihydrocodeine is a critical medical emergency that kills rapidly through respiratory depression. Every second counts.

Signs of opioid overdose (recognize any of these):

Extremely slow, shallow, or absent breathing
Blue or gray lips, fingernails, or skin
Pinpoint (very small) pupils
Gurgling or snoring sounds
Unresponsive to voice or painful stimulation
Limp body, pale face

EMERGENCY RESPONSE — ACT IMMEDIATELY:

Call emergency services (911 in US)
Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available — intranasal spray or intramuscular injection. Naloxone temporarily reverses opioid overdose. A second dose may be needed after 2-3 minutes if no response.
Begin rescue breathing if the person is not breathing — tilt head back, lift chin, give one breath every 5 seconds
Place in recovery position if breathing but unconscious
Stay with them — naloxone wears off in 30-90 minutes and overdose can recurNaloxone access: In many jurisdictions, naloxone is available without prescription at pharmacies. Carrying naloxone saves lives. Learn how to use it.

Dangerous Interactions

The combinations listed below may be life-threatening. Independent research should always be conducted to ensure safety when combining substances.

3-Cl-PCPDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

3-HO-PCEDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

3-HO-PCPDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

3-MeO-PCEDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

3-MeO-PCMoDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

3-MeO-PCPDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

4-MeO-PCPDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

AlcoholDangerous

Atropa belladonnaDangerous

Compounding CNS depression with anticholinergic effects; risk of cardiac events and respiratory failure

BenzodiazepinesDangerous

CakeDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

DaturaDangerous

Compounding CNS depression with anticholinergic effects; risk of cardiac events and respiratory failure

DeschloroetizolamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

DeschloroketamineDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

DesomorphineDangerous

Compounding respiratory depression and overdose risk

DiclazepamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

DiphenhydramineDangerous

Compounding CNS depression with anticholinergic effects; risk of cardiac events and respiratory failure

DiphenidineDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

EphenidineDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

EszopicloneDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

EtizolamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

FlubromazepamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

FlubromazolamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

FlunitrazepamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

FlunitrazolamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

GaboxadolDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

GBLDangerous

GHBDangerous

Harmala alkaloidDangerous

Risk of serotonin syndrome and severe respiratory depression; potentially fatal

HXEDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

InhalantsDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

KetamineDangerous

LorazepamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

MemantineDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

MephenaqualoneDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

MetizolamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

MidazolamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression; this combination is the leading cause of prescription drug overdose deaths

MXiPrDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

NaloxoneDangerous

Compounding respiratory depression and overdose risk

NicotineDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

NifoxipamDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

O-PCEDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

PCEDangerous

Both cause respiratory depression and unconsciousness; vomiting while dissociated risks aspiration

Peganum harmalaDangerous

Risk of serotonin syndrome and severe respiratory depression; potentially fatal

PentobarbitalDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

PhenobarbitalDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

SAMeDangerous

Severe respiratory depression risk; leading cause of polydrug overdose

Legal Status

Austria:** Dihydrocodeine is legal for medical use under the AMG (Arzneimittelgesetz Österreich) and illegal when sold or possessed without a prescription under the SMG (Suchtmittelgesetz Österreich).
Australia:** Dihydrocodeine is a Schedule 3 medicine meaning it is available without prescription but is stored behind the counter at a pharmacy. Consultation with pharmacist is required for purchase. It is most commonly available as an oral liquid (Brand name Rikodeine) at a dose of 19mg/10mL in 100 or 200mL bottles.
Germany:** Dihydrocodeine is a controlled substance under Anlage III of the BtMG. It can only be prescribed on a narcotic prescription form. There is an exception for preperations, containing up to 2,5% or 100mg dihydrocodeine per unit, which can be prescripted on a regular prescription, if not prescripted to an alcohol or drug dependent person.
Hong Kong:** In Hong Kong, dihydrocodeine is regulated under Schedule 1 of Hong Kong's Chapter 134 Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. It can only be used legally by health professionals and for university research purposes. A pharmacist can dispense Dihydrocodeine when furnished with a doctors prescription. Anyone who supplies the substance without a prescription can be fined $10000 (HKD). The penalty for trafficking or manufacturing the substance is a $5,000,000 (HKD) fine and life imprisonment. Possession of the substance for consumption, without a licence from the Department of Health, is illegal and carries a $1,000,000 (HKD) fine and/or 7 years imprisonment.
Japan:** In Japan, dihydrocodeine is available without a prescription; used in cough medicines such as New Bron Solution-ACE. Dihydrocodeine is used as an antitussive in many products as a Dextromethorphan alternative. Medicines in Japan which contain dihydrocodeine are coupled with caffeine to offset the sedative effects and discourage recreational use. Cough medicines containing dihydrocodeine are controlled similarly to dextromethorphan in the United States, in that its sale is strictly limited by purchase quantity and is restricted to persons 20 and older for purchase.
Russia:** Dihydrocodeine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
Sweden: Dihydrocodeine is a prescription only medication.
Switzerland: Dihydrocodeine is a controlled substance specifically named under Verzeichnis A. Medicinal use is permitted. Some preparations containing dihydrocodeine are included in Verzechnis C, while certain ones are excluded.
United Kingdom:** In the United Kingdom, dihydrocodeine is a Class B drug; but, it is available over-the-counter in small amounts (less than 8 mg), when combined with paracetamol (see co-dydramol). Dihydrocodeine is listed in Schedule 5 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 whereby it is exempt from prohibition on possession provided that it is in the form of a single preparation not being designed for injection and less than 100 mg (calculated as free base) or with a total concentration less than 2.5% (calculated as free base). Illegal possession of dihydrocodeine can result in up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine.
United States:** In the USA, dihydrocodeine is a DEA Schedule II substance, although preparations containing small amounts of dihydrocodeine are classified as Schedule III or Schedule V, depending on the concentration of dihydrocodeine relative to other active constituents, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen). This scheduling is similar to the UK's. The DEA's ACSCN for dihydrocodeine free base and all salts is 9120. The 2013 annual aggregate manufacturing quota is 250 kilos.
Responsible use
Extraction of opioids from painkiller products
Codeine
Opioid
Dihydrocodeine (Wikipedia)
Dihydrocodeine (Erowid Vault)
Dihydrocodeine (Isomer Design)
Dihydrocodeine (DrugBank)
Dihydrocodeine (Drugs.com)
Schmidt, H., Vormfelde, S. V., Klinder, K., Gundert-Remy, U., Gleiter, C. H., Skopp, G., Aderjan, R. and Fuhr, U. (2002), Affinities of Dihydrocodeine and its Metabolites to Opioid Receptors. Pharmacology & Toxicology, 91: 57–63. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0773.2002.910203.x
Koch T, Höllt V (2008). Role of receptor internalization in opioid tolerance and dependence. Pharmacol. Ther. 117 (2): 199–206. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2007.10.003
Pert, C. B., Pasternak, G., & Snyder, S. H. (1973). Opiate Agonists and Antagonists Discriminated by Receptor Binding in Brain. Science, 182 (4119), 1359-1361. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.182.4119.1359
Friswell J, Phillips C, Holding J, Morgan CJ, Brandner B, Curran HV (2008). Acute effects of opioids on memory functions of healthy men and women. Psychopharmacology (Berl.). 198 (2): 243–50. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-008-1123-x.
Stefano GB, Ptáček R, Kuželová H, Kream RM (2012). Endogenous morphine: up-to-date review (2011). Folia Biol. (Praha). 58 (2): 49–56. PMID 22578954.

Dihydrocodeine

Quick Dosage

Dosage

oral

Duration

How It Feels

Subjective Effects

Physical Effects

Physical(14)

Cognitive & Perceptual Effects

Visual(1)

Cognitive(7)

Pharmacology

Detection Methods

Standard Drug Panel Inclusion

Urine Detection

Blood and Saliva Detection

Hair Follicle Detection

Confirmatory Testing

Reagent Testing

Interactions

History

Harm Reduction

Toxicity & Safety

Addiction Potential

Overdose Information

Dangerous Interactions

Tolerance

Cross-tolerances

Legal Status

Experience Reports (2)

Tips (8)

Community Discussions (1)

See Also

References (5)

Frequently Asked Questions

Full	develops with prolonged and repeated use
Half	3 - 7 days
Zero	1 - 2 weeks