Dihydrocodeine and pregnancy
Dihydrocodeine can be taken during pregnancy. However, other medicines such as paracetamol may be better and it's best to try them first.
If you take dihydrocodeine towards the end of pregnancy, your baby might have withdrawal symptoms after they're born. If this happens, your baby may need extra time in hospital for observation.
It is important to treat pain in pregnancy. If you have severe pain, dihydrocodeine might sometimes be the best option. Your doctor can help you decide what's right for you and your baby.
Dihydrocodeine and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take dihydrocodeine while breastfeeding. There may be other painkillers that are better to use while breastfeeding, but your doctor will help you decide.
It is not known how much dihydrocodeine gets into breast milk, but it is likely to be a small amount. It is better to take low doses and to only use it for a short time. This reduces the risk of your baby getting side effects.
Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, health visitor or midwife as soon as possible if you have any concerns about your baby, including if your baby:
- is not feeding as well as usual
- has constipation
Immediate action required: Go to A&E or contact 111 now if your baby:
- seems unusually sleepy
- is having difficulty breathing
Dihydrocodeine and fertility
There's no evidence to suggest that dihydrocodeine reduces fertility in men or women.
However, speak to a doctor if you are trying to get pregnant.
Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you're:
- trying to get pregnant
- pregnant
- breastfeeding
For more information about pain relief in pregnancy, visit the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.