Does dihydrocodeine cause same side effects as codeine?

[Goldistheanswer]

My GP has prescribed dihydrocodeine for a long standing condition. He has said that it shouldn’t cause the horrible side effects I have from codeine (severe nausea, dizziness and constipation) as it’s a synthetic version. But everything I’ve read seems to indicate that it can cause exactly these type of symptoms. I’m happy to try the medication but the last thing I need is to still be in pain and have really horrible side effects too!

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Haven't had codeine that I know of, but was given dihydracodeine post-CS and with it I was given a load of Movicol (Jesus wept - never again!) and was warned repeatedly to take as little of the dihydracodeine as I could because of constipation risk. Thankfully I had no side effects from it, but the bloody Movicol was horrendous. Thank God I hadn't taken anywhere near the recommended dose, as if I had, I think there is a risk I would still be on the loo (18 months on ...)

Oh Fluff that’s horrible. Movicol is awful to take. You have my sympathy. The GP seems unconcerned by the prospect of me having side effects but he won’t be the one feeling horrible. 🤮

I've taken both on separate occasions and had the same side effects with either of them unfortunately, drowsiness was the main issue for me though.

Yes, I get the same side-effects with both. If you get constipated, I find Docusate Sodium stool softener is good. You can get Dulco-Ease capsules, or Dulco-Soft liquid.