If you are considering buying Dihydrocodeine 30mg in the UK, it’s important to understand how the medicine works, who can use it, where to buy it legally, and what precautions to take. This guide provides clear and essential information to help you make informed decisions. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain or recovering from surgery, knowing the rules and risks around this medication can protect your health and keep you on the right side of the law.
What is Dihydrocodeine?
Dihydrocodeine is a type of opioid painkiller. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain, especially when milder pain relief options like paracetamol or ibuprofen are not effective. This drug works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain signals. It does not remove the cause of the pain but helps reduce the discomfort you feel.
Dihydrocodeine is similar to codeine but slightly stronger. It is sometimes prescribed alone in 30mg tablets or combined with other medicines, such as paracetamol, in a drug called co-dydramol.
Is It Legal to Buy Dihydrocodeine in the UK?
Yes, it is legal to buy Dihydrocodeine 30mg in the UK—but only under certain conditions.
In the UK, Dihydrocodeine is classed as a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM) and also a Class B controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This means you cannot legally buy Dihydrocodeine 30mg without a valid prescription from a UK-licensed doctor or healthcare provider.
Over-the-counter products containing small amounts of dihydrocodeine are available, but they are limited in strength and quantity. These usually come as co-dydramol and are only sold by pharmacies after a consultation with the pharmacist.
Who Can Be Prescribed Dihydrocodeine 30mg?
Dihydrocodeine is usually prescribed to adults who are experiencing pain that is not managed well by standard painkillers. Common reasons for prescribing it include:
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Chronic back pain
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Post-surgery pain
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Arthritis
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Nerve-related pain
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Cancer-related pain
Your doctor will assess your medical history, current medications, and level of pain before prescribing dihydrocodeine. It is not recommended for children and should be used with caution in elderly patients.
Where to Buy Dihydrocodeine 30mg in the UK
Once you have a prescription, you can buy Dihydrocodeine 30mg from several legal sources:
1. High-Street Pharmacies
Pharmacies like Boots, Lloyds Pharmacy, and Superdrug can dispense dihydrocodeine once they receive your prescription. You can present the prescription in person or have it sent electronically from your doctor.
2. Online Pharmacies
Many UK-registered online pharmacies offer Dihydrocodeine for sale. These websites often include a free online consultation where a licensed doctor reviews your health information and issues a prescription if appropriate.
Popular online pharmacies include:
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PharmXtra
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UK Meds
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Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor
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Express Pharmacy
Only buy from sites that are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and display the MHRA "green cross" logo, which confirms they are legally permitted to sell medicine online.
How Much Does It Cost?
The price of Dihydrocodeine 30mg can vary depending on the provider and the number of tablets. Here are some typical prices:
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28 tablets – £65 to £75
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100 tablets – £100 to £120
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200+ tablets – Up to £160
The NHS may charge less if you receive the medication as part of a treatment plan. Standard NHS prescription charges apply, which is currently £9.90 per item (as of 2025).
Dosage and Usage
The typical adult dose is 30mg every 4 to 6 hours, depending on your level of pain and response to treatment. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your needs, but you should never exceed the prescribed amount.
Always take the medication exactly as directed. Swallow the tablets whole with water and avoid crushing or chewing them.
Side Effects to Watch Out For
Like all opioid medications, Dihydrocodeine can cause side effects. Some of the most common include:
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Drowsiness
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Dizziness
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Constipation
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Nausea or vomiting
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Dry mouth
More serious side effects can include:
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Breathing difficulties
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Severe allergic reactions
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Mood changes or confusion
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Dependency and withdrawal symptoms
If you experience any troubling side effects, seek medical help immediately.
Is Dihydrocodeine Addictive?
Yes, there is a risk of addiction with Dihydrocodeine, especially if it is used for a long time or not taken as prescribed. Your body can become dependent on it, and stopping the drug suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms such as:
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Restlessness
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Sweating
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Shaking
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Anxiety
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Trouble sleeping
To reduce this risk, always follow your doctor’s instructions and never take more than the recommended dose. If you feel you are becoming reliant on the drug, speak to a healthcare professional immediately.
Can You Drive While Taking Dihydrocodeine?
Taking Dihydrocodeine can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery due to its sedative effects. Under UK law, it is illegal to drive if your ability is impaired by prescription drugs, even if you are taking them legally.
If you feel sleepy, dizzy, or unable to focus, do not drive. Always check the leaflet inside the medication box for more information.
Storing and Disposing of the Medication
Store Dihydrocodeine tablets in a cool, dry place away from children. Keep them in their original packaging and do not use them past the expiry date.
If you no longer need the medication, return unused tablets to your local pharmacy. Do not throw them in the bin or flush them down the toilet, as this can harm the environment.
Conclusion
Buying Dihydrocodeine 30mg in the UK is legal only with a valid prescription, and it must be done through regulated and safe channels. Whether you get your medicine from a pharmacy or an online provider, it is important to understand how to use it correctly and safely.
This opioid is a powerful tool for managing pain, but it must be used responsibly to avoid risks such as addiction, side effects, and legal issues. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or stopping this medication, and never share your tablets with anyone else.
By staying informed and cautious, you can use Dihydrocodeine safely and effectively as part of your pain management plan.
