Drugs A-Z

Dihydracodeine

AKA

Diffs, df's, df 118's

Description

These are pharmaceutically produced tablets which are nearly always small white 30mg tablets but are occasionally found as small white oblong 60mg (double diffs) or 120mg tablets. Rarer still are white round 40 and 90mg tablets, oral solution and ampules for injection. They are one of the more common opiates, especially in the Lothians where it was prescribed in the treatment of heroin addiction. It is often described medicinally as the bridge between the minor and major painkillers. Dihydracodeine now has significant demand as a street drug although this is mostly from regular opiate users.

Effects

Similar to those of heroin or morphine although somewhat less potent. Effects begin 20-30 mins after ingestion and last 4-8 hours. Most commonly there is a general sense of wellbeing or euphoria. Dihydracodeine isolates users from physical and emotional pain and anxiety and contracts the pupils of the eye. Constipation may be more severe than with other opiates. Novice or first time users of opiates will often be sick and feel nauseous.

Dihydracodeine is capable of producing physical and psychological dependence similar to that of heroin (pain, restlessness, sleeplessness etc.). Overdose seriously depresses the respiratory system and can lead to coma and death.

Harm reduction

• Easy does it! If you are not dependent on opiates five or six 30mg tablets is plenty.
• Don't inject dihydrocodeine tablets - they will only give you a bad, dirty hit.
• Be aware if mixing with other opiates, benzos, or alcohol because overdose is more likely.
• Many women don't have periods when they use opiates regularly but periods may return any time, so use contraception.
• Don't use the same amount if you have been clean of opiates. Tolerance drops and you may overdose.

Law

Dihydracodeine is a class B drug unless you have a doctor's prescription.

The maximum penalty for possession is 5 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine. Maximum penalty for supply and trafficking is 14 years and an unlimited fine.

Detection

Can be detected in urine from 2-7 days after use.