DHC Continus Tablets – Modified-Release Pain Relief in the UK

DHC Continus is a modified-release formulation of dihydrocodeine used in UK clinical practice for the management of moderate to severe pain when standard analgesics do not provide sufficient relief. Designed to deliver consistent pain control over an extended period, DHC Continus tablets are prescribed under strict NHS and MHRA guidance to ensure effective treatment with patient safety at the forefront.

This page provides clear, authoritative information about DHC Continus, including how it works, clinical uses, safety considerations, and why regulated prescribing is essential in the UK.

What Is DHC Continus?

DHC Continus contains dihydrocodeine in a modified-release (MR) tablet. Unlike immediate-release painkillers, DHC Continus is formulated to release medicine gradually, helping to maintain stable blood levels and sustained pain relief throughout the day or night.

In the UK,  is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM) and is additionally controlled due to its opioid content. It is commonly prescribed for patients who require round-the-clock pain management rather than intermittent dosing.

How DHC Continus Works

Dihydrocodeine, the active ingredient in , is an opioid analgesic that acts on opioid receptors in the central nervous system. By modifying how pain signals are transmitted to the brain, helps to:

• Reduce the intensity of ongoing pain

• Improve comfort during daily activities and rest

• Support better sleep where pain is persistent

The modified-release design allows  to provide longer-lasting relief compared to standard dihydrocodeine tablets, reducing the need for frequent dosing.

Clinical Uses of DHC Continus in the UK

UK prescribers may recommend  for patients experiencing:

• Persistent moderate to severe pain

• Chronic musculoskeletal pain

• Pain related to injury or post-surgical recovery

• Pain conditions requiring continuous analgesia

DHC Continus is typically considered when non-opioid pain relief options, or immediate-release opioids, have not achieved adequate control.

Dosing and Treatment Approach

The dosage of DHC Continus is determined by a UK-registered healthcare professional and tailored to the individual patient. Factors considered include:

• Severity and nature of pain

• Previous exposure to opioid medicines

• Overall health, including liver and kidney function

• Risk factors for opioid sensitivity

Because DHC Continus is modified-release, tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed, as this could interfere with controlled drug release. Treatment plans usually aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate duration.

Why DHC Continus Is Modified-Release

The modified-release formulation of  offers several clinical advantages:

• More consistent pain control over time

• Reduced peaks and troughs in pain relief

• Improved adherence due to less frequent dosing

• Better suitability for long-lasting pain conditions

These benefits make particularly valuable for patients who require continuous pain management rather than as-needed relief.

Safety Information and Responsible Use

Responsible use of DHC Continus is essential. Patients prescribed this medicine should:

• Follow the prescribed dose and schedule exactly

• Avoid alcohol while taking

• Use caution when driving or operating machinery

• Inform their prescriber of all other medicines being taken

Because is an opioid, prolonged or inappropriate use can increase the risk of tolerance or dependence. This is why UK prescribing guidelines emphasise careful monitoring and regular review.

Possible Side Effects of DHC Continus

Like all medicines, may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Commonly reported effects include:

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Constipation

• Nausea

• Dry mouth

Most side effects are manageable when dosing is appropriate. Patients should seek medical advice if they experience breathing difficulties, confusion, or severe reactions.

Who May Not Be Suitable for DHC Continus?

DHC Continus may not be appropriate for everyone. A healthcare professional will carefully assess suitability, particularly for individuals who:

• Have respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD

• Have liver or kidney impairment

• Have a history of substance misuse

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

This assessment ensures that the benefits of outweigh potential risks.

DHC Continus in UK Pain Management

Within the UK healthcare system,  is considered part of a structured pain management strategy. It is often used alongside:

• Paracetamol or other non-opioid analgesics

• Physiotherapy or rehabilitation programmes

• Lifestyle adjustments and supportive therapies

This holistic approach helps to improve outcomes while minimising reliance on opioid medication alone.

Storage and Disposal Guidance

To maintain safety and effectiveness:

• Store DHC Continus below 25°C

• Keep tablets in original packaging

• Store out of sight and reach of children

• Return unused tablets to a pharmacy for safe disposal

Proper storage reduces the risk of accidental ingestion or misuse.

Why Regulated UK Supply Matters

Interest in  highlights the importance of accessing medicines through compliant UK channels. Regulated supply ensures:

• Authentic, quality-assured medication

• Appropriate prescribing and monitoring

• Clear patient information and guidance

• Compliance with NHS and MHRA standards

This protects patient wellbeing and supports responsible pain treatment.

Key Points to Remember

• DHC Continus is a modified-release dihydrocodeine tablet

• Used for ongoing moderate to severe pain

• Prescription-only and tightly regulated in the UK

• Designed for consistent, long-lasting pain relief

• Best used as part of a monitored treatment plan

Important Information

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. DHC Continus should only be used when prescribed by a UK-registered clinician and taken exactly as directed.