What Is DF118?

You may have heard of or experienced a drug known as DF118. This drug has legitimate medical uses, mainly as a painkiller, but is also a controlled substance in the UK. It is open to misuse and can be harmful and addictive if used other than directed by a medical practitioner.

Here is all the DF118 drug information you need to know…

What is DF118?

DF118, or DF118 Forte, is a brand name for dihydrocodeine, a prescription opioid medication that is mainly used to treat moderate to severe pain. Another brand name it may be known as in the UK is DHC Continus. Co-dydramol, Paramol, Remedeine and Remedeine Forte are other brand names of medicines that contain both dihydrocodeine and paracetamol.

It is generally supplied in tablet form but can also be a liquid to swallow. It may sometimes be given as an injection, but this is generally only done in a hospital setting. Dihydrocodeine, or DF118, is a class B controlled substance in the UK due to its addictive and potentially dangerous qualities. This status means you can get up to 5 years in prison for unauthorised possession and up to 14 years for supplying the drug, as well as an unlimited fine for both.

Medical Uses of DF118

DF118 and other brands of dihydrocodeine are generally used as strong painkillers for moderate to severe pain, such as post-surgery pain, injury-related pain, or chronic conditions like arthritis. It can also have other medical uses, such as treating persistent coughing and breathlessness in palliative care – although this will be on a case-by-case basis and only as directed.

Along with other opioid-based painkillers, DF118 is generally intended only for short-term use in order to avoid dependency.

How Does DF118 Work?

DF118 works in a similar way to other opioid painkillers such as the related drug codeine, the stronger medicine morphine and the very potent synthetic opioid fentanyl. Essentially, they work by binding to opioid receptors located in the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract and elsewhere in the body. This has the effect of changing the way that pain is perceived, decreasing the reaction to pain and increasing the tolerance to pain.

As with other opioids, the use of DF118 can also lead to feelings of relaxation and euphoria. Some people will seek out these feelings, which is one of the main reasons why the drug may be misused. DF118 can also have a sedative effect that can affect mental alertness and coordination.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

DF118 and other brands or formats of dihydrocodeine can have a number of side effects. Some relatively common side effects, which affect more than 1% of people who use the medication, include:

• Constipation
• Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
• Feeling sleepy
• Confusion, feeling dizzy and vertigo (a sensation of spinning)
• Dry mouth
• Headaches

More serious risks include respiratory depression or slowed breathing, tolerance, dependence and addiction. Opioids like DF118 can be particularly dangerous when taken with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as alcohol or benzodiazepines (benzos). This can cause sedation, unconsciousness, coma or even death as the breathing and other systems shut down.

There is also a risk of overdose. The risk is not as high as with powerful opiates like fentanyl but is still an issue, particularly if the drug is misused and high doses are taken. An overdose of DF118 can again lead to respiratory depression, coma and death. Signs of a potential overdose include slowed breathing, confusion and loss of consciousness.

DF118 Misuse and Addiction

Prolonged use of opioids, including DF118, can lead to an increased tolerance – meaning you need more of the drug for the same effect. You can also develop a dependency and suffer withdrawal symptoms when you cut down or stop using it.

Misuse does not always mean recreational use, although this can be particularly risky as the drug may be taken in high doses or in combination with other substances. Some people can develop a dependency even when using the medication as prescribed. Misuse can also refer to taking the drug other than prescribed – typically more frequently or in higher doses – or in attempting to get hold of more DF118 through dishonesty (such as lying to the doctor) or through illicit sources.

Recognising DF118 Addiction

The signs and symptoms of DF118 addiction can vary but may include:

• Using more or taking higher doses of the drug
• Needing more for the same effect
• Craving the drug when not using it
• Ill effects (withdrawal symptoms) when you do not use it
• Using dishonest means to obtain the drug
• Mood swings and irritability
• A preoccupation with obtaining and using the drug

Treatment Options for DF118 Addiction

As with other types of addiction, DF118 addiction is treatable, but it is always best to address any issue as early as possible. It can be very difficult to deal with an opioid addiction without expert help, as you may have to deal with both physical and psychological aspects of the addiction. Detox and withdrawal symptoms should be carefully managed as they can be very uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.

There are a number of treatment approaches available, including:

• Detox programmes: Supervised detox to manage physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms safely.
• Medication-assisted therapy (MAT): Use of replacement therapies such as methadone or buprenorphine to taper or wean off DF118.
• Counselling and therapy: Evidence-backed techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and group therapy sessions to help deal with the psychological and behavioural aspects of addiction.
• Residential rehab programmes:  Structured environments that provide intensive support and treatment.

How Action Rehab Can Help

Action Rehab can offer bespoke treatment plans for opioid addiction, with a wealth of expertise and experience treating all aspects of addiction. This can include:

• 24/7 medical supervision during detoxification.
• Holistic therapies to address emotional and psychological dependencies.
• Aftercare programmes to prevent relapse and maintain long-term recovery.

If you are worried about your own opioid use or that of a loved one, get in touch today. We can provide confidential advice or help you to start the ball rolling and take your first steps towards making a full and long-lasting recovery.

Posted on Monday, January 13th, 2025 at 11:59 am in Addiction.