Description
Co-codamol 30mg/500mg Tablets provide effective relief from moderate to severe pain, particularly when standard painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen alone have not been sufficient. As a result, they are commonly used for short-term pain management where stronger relief is required.
Each tablet contains codeine phosphate (30mg) and paracetamol (500mg), which work together to enhance pain relief through both central and peripheral mechanisms.
Active ingredients: Paracetamol 500mg, Codeine Phosphate 30mg
Form: Tablets
Use: Relief of moderate to severe pain
Suitable for: Adults and young people aged 12 years and over
Co-codamol is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and above. However, it should only be used for short-term pain relief when other treatments have not been effective.
Do not use if:
- You are allergic to paracetamol, codeine, or any of the ingredients
- You are breastfeeding
- You have severe liver or kidney problems
- You have breathing difficulties or respiratory depression
- The patient is under 12 years of age
Additionally, this medicine should not be used in children and young people who have had their tonsils or adenoids removed for sleep apnoea.
Before taking this medicine:
Before starting treatment, you should consider how and when to stop taking this medicine. This helps reduce the risk of dependence.
Dosage:
Adults:
- Take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed
- Do not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours
Ages 16–18:
- 1–2 tablets every 6 hours when required (maximum 8 tablets daily)
Ages 12–15:
- 1 tablet every 6 hours when required (maximum 4 tablets daily)
Method: Oral use
Always take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
Important warnings:
Co-codamol contains codeine, which can cause dependence if used for long periods. Therefore, it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine
- Do not take with other medicines containing paracetamol
- Long-term use may lead to addiction or withdrawal symptoms
- If treatment is no longer needed, reduce the dose gradually rather than stopping suddenly
Use with caution in older adults and those with liver or kidney impairment.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
- During pregnancy, this medicine should only be used if advised by a doctor
- Do not use while breastfeeding
Driving and operating machinery:
This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Therefore, you should not drive or operate machinery if affected.
Driving warning:
It is an offence to drive if this medicine impairs your ability. However, you would not be committing an offence if:
- It was prescribed for a medical or dental condition
- You followed the instructions provided
- It did not affect your ability to drive safely
Side effects:
Like all medicines, co-codamol can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Severe skin reactions
Common side effects include:
- Constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
Less common but more serious effects may include:
- Liver problems (especially if exceeding dose or combining with alcohol)
- Breathing difficulties
- Dependence or withdrawal symptoms
- Mood changes
Interactions:
Co-codamol can interact with other medicines. For example:
- Antidepressants (including MAOIs and tricyclic antidepressants)
- Sedatives or sleeping tablets
- Other opioid medicines
- Alcohol
- Other medicines containing paracetamol
These combinations can increase the risk of severe sedation, liver damage, or breathing problems.
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you are taking.
Suitable for short-term use only
Always read the patient information leaflet before use
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional