Co-Codamol for Adults
Co-codamol is a combination of two different pain relievers: paracetamol and codeine. It is used to alleviate various types of pain such as headaches, muscle aches, migraines, and toothaches. If regular pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or paracetamol alone are ineffective, co-codamol may be helpful. This medication is available in tablet and capsule forms, including soluble tablets that can be dissolved in water. Co-codamol tablets and capsules are offered in three strengths, with the lowest strength available for purchase at pharmacies and the higher strength also accessible.
Key facts
- Co-codamol takes up to 1 hour to work. It keeps on working for about 5 hours.
- The most common side effects of co-codamol are constipation, feeling sick (nausea), or feeling sleepy.
- Taking too much co-codamol can be harmful. Do not increase the dose, even if your pain is terrible.
- It’s possible to become addicted to the codeine in co-codamol, but your doctor will explain how to reduce the risks of becoming addicted.
- If you need to take co-codamol for more than a few weeks, your treatment plan may include details of how and when to stop taking this medicine.
Who can take co-codamol?
Most adults can take co-codamol.
Who may not be able to take co-codamol?
Co-codamol is not suitable for some people. To make sure it’s safe for you, tell your doctor before starting to take it if you:
- have lung problems or breathing difficulties
- have a head injury
- have adrenal gland problems
- have a condition that causes fits or seizures
- regularly drink more than the maximum recommended amount of alcohol (14 units a week)
- are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding
- have liver problems – you may need to take a lower dose
- are under 18 years old and have had your tonsils or adenoids removed because of a sleep problem called sleep apnoea
How and when to take co-codamol for adults
“It is important to adhere to the dosage and usage directions provided by your doctor when taking co-codamol. This is particularly significant because co-codamol has the potential to lead to dependence and addiction if not used properly.”
Different co-codamol strengths
Co-codamol tablets and capsules are available in 3 different strengths, containing 8mg, 15mg, or 30mg of codeine. All three strengths contain 500mg of paracetamol, which is the same as in a standard paracetamol tablet or capsule. On the packet, the strength of co-codamol appears as two numbers. For example, 8/500 means each tablet or capsule contains 8mg of codeine and 500mg of paracetamol. The lowest strength of co-codamol (8/500) can be purchased without a prescription, but only from a pharmacy. The higher strengths (15/500 and 30/500) are only available with a prescription from a doctor.
Dosage
Please remember the following information about taking co-codamol:
- Adults can take 1 or 2 tablets (of any strength) up to 4 times in a 24-hour period.
- It’s important to wait at least 4 to 6 hours between doses of co-codamol.
- The maximum dose is eight co-codamol tablets in 24 hours.
- Taking too much co-codamol can be very dangerous because the paracetamol in it can cause liver damage.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or take more than two tablets at once, even if you’re in severe pain. If the dose is not sufficient to relieve your pain, please consult a pharmacist or doctor.
How to take it
Swallow co-codamol tablets or capsules whole with a drink of water. Co-codamol is also available as soluble (effervescent) tablets that are dissolved in a glass of water to make a drink. You can take co-codamol with or without food.
How long to take it for?
If your doctor has prescribed co-codamol for you, they will inform you about the duration of the treatment. For instance, if you are experiencing pain due to an injury or surgery, you may need to take it for a few days or weeks. If you have a chronic condition causing pain, you may require a longer course of treatment.
If you have purchased co-codamol from a pharmacy, do not use it for more than three days. If your pain persists after three days, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
If you take too much
Taking 1 or 2 extra tablets is unlikely to harm you. Do not take more than eight tablets in 24 hours.
Taking too much co-codamol can be dangerous, and you may need treatment. Too much co-codamol can cause liver damage.
Side effects of co-codamol for adults
Like all medications, co-codamol may cause side effects; however, not everyone experiences them. Many individuals have either no side effects or only minor ones. The likelihood of experiencing side effects increases when taking higher strengths of co-codamol.
Common side effects
These common side effects of co-codamol happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:
- Constipation
- Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
- Feeling dizzy
- Feeling sleepy
- Headaches
If you find that the advice on managing side effects is not effective and a particular side effect continues to bother you or does not improve, it’s important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 100 people.
Call a doctor if you have:
- a skin rash
- difficulty peeing
- changes in your eyesight
- muscle stiffness
- symptoms of low blood pressure, which include feeling dizzy and tired
Serious allergic reaction
In rare cases, it’s possible to have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to co-codamol.
Long-term side effects
If you’ve purchased co-codamol from a pharmacy, do not use it for more than three days. If your pain persists, consult with a pharmacist or doctor. Using co-codamol for an extended period can lead to increased tolerance, requiring higher doses to manage pain over time. Some individuals may experience heightened pain sensitivity (hyperalgesia). If this occurs, your doctor may gradually reduce your dose to alleviate these symptoms. It is possible to develop an addiction to the codeine in co-codamol. Therefore, your dosage will be regularly assessed to ensure you are taking only the necessary amount to manage your pain. Your treatment plan may also include information about how and when to discontinue co-codamol use. If you are undergoing treatment for cancer pain or other severe pain, your pain management will be closely monitored. If you have concerns about tolerance, hyperalgesia, or addiction, speak with your doctor.