Co-Codamol Tablets – 32 x 8/500mg (Brand May Vary)

Description

Co-Codamol Tablets – 32 x 8/500mg (Brand May Vary)

Co-Codamol 8/500mg tablets are a combination painkiller containing codeine phosphate and paracetamol, used to relieve mild to moderate pain such as headaches, toothache, muscular pain, and period pain when paracetamol alone has not been effective.

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How It Works

Co-Codamol contains two active ingredients that work together to relieve pain. Paracetamol blocks pain signals in the brain, while codeine is a mild opioid that acts on pain receptors in the body and brain to further reduce the sensation of pain. Together, they provide more effective relief than either ingredient on its own.

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Directions for Use

Adults and young people aged 16 and over: take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 8 tablets in any 24-hour period. Leave at least 4 hours between doses. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not use for more than 3 days without speaking to a doctor. Co-Codamol is not suitable for children under 16 years of age. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Active Ingredients

• Codeine phosphate hemihydrate 8mg per tablet
• Paracetamol 500mg per tablet

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Possible Side Effects

• Constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Headache
• Skin rash or itching
• Stomach upset or discomfort
If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• Children under 16 years of age
• People who are allergic to codeine, paracetamol, or any other ingredient in this product
• People who suffer from liver or kidney disease
• Those with respiratory problems such as asthma or breathing difficulties
• People who are known to be ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine
• Breastfeeding mothers
• Anyone currently taking other paracetamol-containing products

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Interactions

Co-Codamol may interact with other medicines, including other painkillers containing paracetamol or opioids, medicines for depression (such as MAOIs or tricyclics), sedatives, sleeping tablets, anti-epileptic medicines, and blood-thinning medicines such as warfarin. Taking other products containing paracetamol at the same time can lead to a serious overdose. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Co-Codamol is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages, as codeine can affect the baby’s breathing. Codeine must not be used during breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and may harm the baby. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Co-Codamol. Both codeine and paracetamol can interact with alcohol — codeine may increase the sedative effects, and alcohol combined with paracetamol can increase the risk of liver damage. Avoid alcohol entirely whilst taking this medicine.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Co-Codamol can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your ability to drive or use machinery safely. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or perform any activity that requires full alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. The codeine component in particular can impair your reaction time and concentration.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

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Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: March 2026.

Brand	Generic
Class	Pharmacy Medicine