Co-Codamol 8/500

Co-codamol is a combination painkiller used for the short-term treatment of moderate pain when standard painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen alone are not effective.

It contains:
Paracetamol (pain relief + fever reduction)
Codeine phosphate (an opioid painkiller that changes how pain is perceived)

It is commonly used for headaches (including tension-type headaches), migraine pain, muscular, dental, or post-operative pain

Typical dosing (adults ≥18 years):

• Take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed
• Maximum: 8 tablets in 24 hours (varies slightly by strength and product)
• Swallow with water, preferably with food if it upsets the stomach
• Use for the shortest time possible (ideally no more than 3 days without medical advice)

Important:
Do not take with other paracetamol-containing products
Do not exceed the recommended dose

Common side effects:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness

Serious risks:

• Dependence/addiction risk (due to codeine) if used regularly or long-term
• Paracetamol overdose → severe liver damage (can be life-threatening)
• Reduced alertness → avoid driving if affected

Do NOT use if:

• Under 18 (unless specifically prescribed)
• Breathing problems (e.g. asthma not well controlled)
• Liver disease or heavy alcohol use
• Known allergy to paracetamol or opioids

Use caution if:

• Taking antidepressants, sedatives, or other opioids
• Pregnant or breastfeeding (medical advice required)
• History of substance misuse

Important warning
Frequent use can lead to medication-overuse headache
Codeine can cause tolerance (needing more for same effect)

Active ingredients:
Paracetamol (typically 500 mg per tablet)
Codeine phosphate hemihydrate (8 mg / 15 mg / 30 mg depending on strength)

Common excipients (vary by manufacturer): Maize starch, Povidone, Stearic acid or magnesium stearate, Sodium starch glycolate, Film coating agents (e.g. hypromellose, titanium dioxide)