Co-codamol is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for pain. If you have just been prescribed co-codamol, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 14 July 2026.
What is co-codamol?
Co-codamol combines paracetamol with codeine to relieve pain that isn’t controlled by paracetamol alone. The higher strengths contain more codeine, an opioid.
Brands and strengths
Co-codamol is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic co-codamol and under brand names including Kapake, Codipar and Solpadol — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Co-codamol 8/500 mg tablets
- Co-codamol 15/500 mg tablets
- Co-codamol 30/500 mg tablets
- UK brands: Kapake, Codipar and Solpadol
What co-codamol is used for
- Short-term moderate pain
How to take co-codamol
Take as prescribed and do not exceed the stated dose (because of the paracetamol). Codeine can cause dependence, so it is intended for short-term use — do not take it for longer than advised. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include constipation, drowsiness and feeling sick. Do not take other paracetamol-containing medicines at the same time. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Co-codamol: frequently asked questions
The higher strengths (15/500 and 30/500) contain more codeine, an opioid that can cause dependence, so they are prescription-only and for short-term use.
No — co-codamol already contains paracetamol, so taking more risks an overdose.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for co-codamol, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your co-codamol delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for co-codamol, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Co-codamol.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.