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Dihydrocodeine (4,5-alpha-epoxy-3-methoxy-17-morphinan-6-ol, C18H23NO3), also called DHC or DF-118, is a synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for postoperative pain, severe dyspnea, or as an antitussive. It was developed in the early 1900s, and is similar in chemical structure and pharmaceutical behaviour to codeine, but is approximately twice as potent.
As with other opioids, tolerance and physical and psychological dependence develop with repeated dihydrocodeine use. All opioids can impair the mental and/or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as driving or operating machinery.
Dihydrocodeine can be administered orally (PO), intramuscularly (IM), subcutaneously (SC) and rectally.
In the USA, it 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 acetaminophen.
In the United Kingdom dihydrocodeine is a Class B drug - making it more dangerous than cannabis which is a class C drug. Illegal posession of dihydrocodeine can result in up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
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