Co-codamol is a painkiller available without a prescription under various brand names. It’s a combination of two painkillers, paracetamol, and codeine. Paracetamol is a common painkiller that can relieve most types of pain, while codeine is a strong painkiller known as an opioid. The two medicines work together in relieving your pain, but they have different side effects.

What Co-codamol is Used For

Co-codamol is used to treat the symptoms of mild to moderate pain, such as muscle aches and toothaches. It can also be used to reduce fevers. However, it shouldn’t be used for pain relief in children and adolescents (0-18 years) after removal of their tonsils or adenoids due to the increased risk of potentially fatal side effects.

Dosage Instructions for Co-codamol

The standard dosage of co-codamol is one or two tablets every 4-6 hours and should not exceed six tablets in 24 hours. Remember, the tablets contain codeine, which can be addictive, so it is always important to use co-codamol responsibly and as directed by a healthcare professional. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at the same time. Overdosing on paracetamol can be dangerous and prompt medical advice should be sought promptly.

Side Effects of Co-codamol

Common side effects of co-codamol include constipation, feeling sick, and lightheadedness. The major problem for most people comes from taking it continuously or regularly at any dose of codeine. You should talk to your doctor if you have any of these side effects, but most people will not experience them. Long-term use of codeine can lead to addiction, which might cause mental and physical health problems. If you notice changes in your mood, feel better with the painkiller, or want to take it more often, speak to your doctor.

What You Need to Know Before Taking Co-codamol

Before taking co-codamol, make sure that you have read and understood any information given with the medicine packet about it. Paracetamol isn’t suitable for some people. Never take more than the recommended dose of co-codamol as this can be fatal.

Here are some things you should know before taking co-codamol:

• Co-codamol can be taken by adults and children 12 years and older.
• Do not take co-codamol if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. 
• Co-codamol can make you drowsy or dizzy, especially if you’ve just started taking it, you’ve changed to a stronger dose, or you’re drinking alcohol. 
• Do not drink alcohol while you’re taking co-codamol, as it can increase the risk of experiencing the side effects. 
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

How to Take Co-codamol

Take co-codamol exactly as your doctor has told you, or as it says on the label. You will find the dose that you should take printed on the label of the pack.

Here are the general rules for how to take co-codamol:

• Co-codamol comes as tablets, soluble tablets, and capsules. Swallow the tablets and capsules whole with a glass of water.
• Take your medicine at the same time every day.
• You can take co-codamol either before or after food, but taking your doses with a small meal or snack may help prevent feeling sick.

If you’re 18 or over, the usual dose is 1 or 2 tablets (each containing 8mg of codeine and 500mg of paracetamol) every 4 hours, but do not take more than 8 tablets in a 24-hour period

If co-codamol makes you feel sleepy, take it in the evening so that you don’t have to drive or use tools or machinery.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the forgotten dose and take your next dose as usual.

Can You Drive After Taking Co-codamol?

Do not drive or use tools or machinery if you’re feeling sleepy. Do not drink alcohol while you’re taking co-codamol. Do not take them for longer than you’re told to. Check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to see how often you can take your medicine.

Remember to follow the instructions on the pack with your specific dose as it will depend on the strength of the tablets you have been given.

If painkillers are not working it is very important not to take more than the recommended dose.

Speak to your pharmacist if you hop this information helps.