Co codamol is a combination painkiller made from paracetamol and codeine. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain when everyday painkillers like paracetamol alone have not worked. You can buy lower-strength tablets from a pharmacy, while stronger doses require a prescription from a doctor.
Below, you’ll find clear answers on what’s in it, how it works, who should avoid it, and what to do if something goes wrong.
You can buy the 8/500 strength from a pharmacy without a prescription. The 15/500 and 30/500 strengths need a prescription from a GP.
Here Is Full Breakdown:
The first number represents the milligrams of codeine, while the second shows the paracetamol content. For example, an 8/500 tablet contains 8mg of codeine and 500mg of paracetamol. Stronger prescription-only versions include 15/500 and 30/500 strengths.
| Tablet Strength | Codeine Content | Paracetamol Content | Prescription Needed? |
| 8/500 | 8mg | 500mg | No (available at pharmacies) |
| 15/500 | 15mg | 500mg | Yes (requires GP prescription) |
| 30/500 | 30mg | 500mg | Yes (requires GP prescription) |
Co-codamol is used for pain that a single painkiller hasn’t managed to control.
Common reasons people take it:
It’s not usually the first painkiller doctors reach for. It’s normally a step up when everyday painkillers aren’t enough.
Most adults can take co-codamol safely. But it’s not right for everyone.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist first if you:
If any of these apply to you, don’t assume it’s safe. Check first.
You must always follow the exact dosage instructions on the packet or your prescription label. The standard dose for adults is 1 or 2 tablets taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. You must never take more than 8 tablets in any 24-hour period.
| Metric | Adult Dosage Rule |
| Standard Dose | 1 to 2 tablets per dose |
| Minimum Interval | 4 to 6 hours between doses |
| Maximum Dose | 8 tablets in 24 hours |
| Maximum Duration | 3 days without medical advice |
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but ensure you still leave a 4-hour gap before the next one. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.
Taking too much of this medicine can cause a life-threatening paracetamol overdose, which can lead to severe liver damage.
A few simple things reduce your risk of harm while you’re taking co-codamol.
It’s safe to take co-codamol alongside ibuprofen or aspirin, if your doctor or pharmacist agrees this is appropriate for you.
Most people only get mild side effects while taking Co-Codamol like feeling sick, constipated, or a bit sleepy. These usually settle down.
But some symptoms need urgent action.
Call 111 or go to A&E straight away if you have:
Call 111 or contact your GP if you have:
If you’ve taken too much, go to A&E even if you feel okay. Paracetamol overdose can damage the liver before symptoms appear. Take the packet or leaflet with you.
Before starting co-codamol ask these question, it helps to ask your GP or pharmacist:
A quick conversation before you start can prevent problems later.
It’s used for aches and pains such as period pain, muscle pain, toothache, and moderate to severe pain that hasn’t responded to ordinary painkillers.
Yes. You can take it with or without food.
It usually starts working within an hour and lasts around 5 hours.
Yes, it can be. The codeine in it carries a risk of dependence, especially with long-term use. That’s why pharmacy-bought co-codamol shouldn’t be used for more than 3 days without medical advice.
Only if it doesn’t make you sleepy, dizzy, or affect your concentration. If you’re unsure, don’t drive.
You could be at risk of serious liver damage from the paracetamol. Go to A&E straight away, even if you feel fine, and take the packet with you.
