Both well-known chronic painkillers, Dihydrocodeine and Co-codamol are proven to be effective in patients that want to live normal life without pain.
We look at the differences between them.
First synthesised in 1908 by accident, Dihydrocodeine is now a man-made opioid that has been used since 1911 to treat pain. Now available in a number of ways, Dihydrocodeine can be taken in the following forms:
- tablets
- capsules
- elixirs
- liquid oral solution
- injectable solution (in some countries)
It was first formulated whilst research was being carried out to formulate a more stronger cough medicine to prevent the spread of pneumonia and tuberculosis. Instead, the scientists stumbled upon a formula that worked as a painkiller instead!
Dihydrocodeine is twice as strong as codeine and has very active metabolites. The strengths are usually 15 -16 mg or 30 - 32 mg. Other active ingredients may also be present, including the following:
- aspirin
- acetaminophen
- ibuprofen
Co-codamol on the other hand is made up of a combination of codeine and acetaminophen or paracetamol. Used for moderate pain, rather than severe pain, Co-codamol comes in the following strengths per tablet:
8 mg
10 mg
12.8 mg
15 mg
20 mg
30 mg
60 mg
When it comes to answering which is stronger out of Dihydrocodeine and Co-codamol, you have to consider how many times a patient is typically taking a tablet each day.
Dihydrocodeine is often taken as one 30 mg tablet every four to six hours, or even sometimes, up to six times daily. If a patient takes more than one tablet at each course is highly unadvised, because of the increased risk of side effects.
Co-codamol is usually administered as one or two tablets taken up to four times per day. Similarly, taking more than two tablets at each course is not advised. Taking more than 8 tablets within a day is also not advised.
Dihydrocodeine is highly effective in giving pain relief with less side effects. Some patients will find Co-codamol provides better pain relief. It all depends on the person and the type / intensity of pain they are treating.
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