Co-codamol

Co-codamol contains Paracetamol and Codeine. In the UK it is used for short-term relief of moderate pain that has not responded to paracetamol alone, when your prescriber or pharmacist considers it appropriate.

Different strengths exist (the amount of Codeine varies). Higher strengths are usually prescription-only. It is not suitable for long-term pain for everyone because of codeine-related risks.

Paracetamol reduces pain and fever; Codeine is an opioid that blocks pain signals in the brain and spinal cord. Together they can give more relief than paracetamol alone for some types of pain.

Codeine is converted in the body to Morphine in variable amounts between people, which affects both benefit and side effects.

Take exactly as your label says — note the maximum number of tablets per day and do not take other products containing Paracetamol at the same time.

Swallow with water, often after food if it upsets your stomach. Do not exceed the stated dose or duration without medical review.

Common effects include constipation, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. Many improve if you treat constipation early with diet, fluids, or advice from a pharmacist.

Some people feel sick or sleepy — avoid alcohol and be careful with driving if affected.

Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, confusion, severe drowsiness, allergic swelling, or if an overdose is possible — Paracetamol overdose can harm the liver even if you feel well at first.

Codeine can cause dependence if used for long periods or at high doses; sudden stopping after regular use can cause withdrawal symptoms.

If you take it regularly and miss a dose, take it when you remember if you still need pain relief, unless your next dose is due soon. Do not double up.

If you use it only when needed, wait until pain requires the next allowed dose.

Co-codamol is not suitable for some people with severe breathing problems, acute asthma, head injury, or certain liver problems. Children under 12 should not have Codeine for pain unless specifically directed by a specialist in defined situations.

Tell your prescriber if you drink heavily, have kidney or liver disease, or take medicines that cause drowsiness.

Interactions include other opioids, benzodiazepines, some antidepressants, and alcohol — increased sedation and breathing risk. Warfarin may need monitoring with regular Paracetamol.

Always check before combining with new medicines.

Discuss with your GP or midwife before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding — Codeine is generally avoided in breastfeeding because of risk to the baby.

If you need co-codamol for more than a few days, your prescriber may review whether a different plan is safer. Long-term opioid use needs structured review.

Your GP or pharmacist may suggest Paracetamol alone, Ibuprofen or Naproxen if suitable, topical treatments, physiotherapy, or other pain strategies.