Quick summary

Type of medicine

Painkiller

Generic

Active Ingredient

Paracetamol 500 mg, codeine phosphate hemihydrate 8 mg per tablet.

Effective within

Works by

Combines paracetamol (a non-opioid pain reliever) and codeine (an opioid analgesic) to relieve pain effectively.

Side effects

Medication details

Description

Co-codamol, a combination painkiller, contains the active ingredients paracetamol and codeine. It is used to relieve moderate to severe pain that is not alleviated by paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin alone. Co-codamol works by reducing the body's production of pain-inducing chemicals and altering the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals. This medication is available in different strengths and can be taken by adults and children over 12 years of age, as directed by a healthcare professional. Prolonged use may lead to dependence; therefore, it should only be used for short-term pain management.

Directions

Adults and children aged 16 and over: swallow one to two tablets with a glass of water every four to six hours as needed, up to a maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours. Children aged 12 to 15: one tablet every six hours when needed, up to a maximum of 4 tablets in 24 hours. Leave at least four hours between doses. Do not take for more than three days continuously. Do not take anything else containing paracetamol at the same time.

Ingredients

Each tablet contains the active ingredients paracetamol 500 mg and codeine phosphate hemihydrate 8 mg. The tablets also contain inactive ingredients including maize starch, pregelatinised starch, povidone, talc, magnesium stearate and stearic acid. Check the patient information leaflet for the full list.

Side Effects

Common: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness. Rare: Allergic reactions, pancreatitis, severe skin reactions.

Warnings

Long-term use may lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Taking for headaches for more than 3 days may worsen them. May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not drive until you know how it affects you.

How long can I safely take Co-Codamol for?

It contains codeine, an opioid, which can cause addiction if taken continuously for more than three days. Use it for the shortest time needed, and if your pain is not controlled after three days, stop and speak to a clinician rather than continuing. When you stop you may notice withdrawal effects; our pharmacy team at info@rightangled.com can advise if you are concerned.

Why does it sometimes cause constipation, and what can I do?

Constipation is a common effect of the codeine in Co-Codamol. Drinking plenty of water and eating fibre can help during a short course. If constipation is troublesome or persists after you stop the tablets, speak to a pharmacist about what might help.

Who should not take Co-Codamol?

It must not be given to children under 12, used while breastfeeding, or taken by people known to process codeine very rapidly (ultra-rapid metabolisers). Because it contains paracetamol, do not take any other paracetamol-containing product alongside it. If you are unsure whether it is suitable for you, check with our pharmacy team at info@rightangled.com before taking it.

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