What is Co-Codamol?


Classified as an analgesic used for pain control, it is a combination of codeine and paracetamol. Co-Codamol is available in three different strengths. The lowest dosage is available over the counter without a prescription, while the other two strengths remain prescription only. Every formulation has the same 500mg of paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen in other countries, while the amount of codeine will vary.

What is it used to treat?

Codeine is an opioid that is used to treat mild to moderate pain. Some doctor’s may wish you to try Co-Codamol before other medications to gauge how well you may respond to treatment, or if you have issues taking multiple pills. It can be used for such common conditions as mild to moderate chronic pain, toothaches, muscle aches due to injury, pain related to severe menstrual cycles, and short term joint pain.

Because of its paracetamol content the typical dosage is 1-2 pills every 4-6 hours, but no more than 8 pills should be taken in the course of 24 hours. Both drugs can have a severe, if not lethal, impact on the liver if taken at higher dosages over a period of time or at once. Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and seek their advice regarding questions you may have.

How can it be purchased?

The lowest strength is available at many pharmacies without a prescription and simply requires talking to the pharmacist. A doctor can prescribe the higher doses, and can be prescribed after a face to face, or through an online consultation at a pain clinic. For many people in the UK and other parts of Europe, online pain clinics are becoming more popular. When there is difficulty getting to a regular doctor’s office, due to physical or geographical limitations, an online visit with a registered doctor at home is a wonderful opportunity to get needed treatment. Another benefit to using online pain management clinics is that you can also buy Co-Codamol, and other medications directly from them through their partner pharmacy and have the medication promptly shipped to you.

What are the benefits and side effects of Co-Codamol?

The benefits of using the medication is the relief of pain that may inhibit daily life activities and improve the over all quality of living. Pain can not only be physically limiting, it can have severe psychological impacts as well. Using painkillers can help regain control of your life that has begun to feel out of your hands due to debilitating pain.

With any opioid there is a chance of addiction if the medication is used for extended periods of time or is abused by taking too much, or more at time than was prescribed. Normal side effects that might affect some users and potentially go away after the body adjusts to the medication are: dizziness and mild sedation. (Get more information about opiate addiction here)

As with any opioid, it is important to have a healthy diet with plenty of water and fiber to prevent constipation. Any severe side effects that appear to affect breathing, heart rate, or that result in a severe rash should be signs for the patient to discontinue use and consult their doctor immediately. Severe allergic reactions, which may happen with any medication, can require hospital or emergency medical care.

How safe is it to use and buy Co-Codamol?

Overall, when used properly, it is a fairly safe and effective treatment. It is a beginning step up from over the counter pan control measures and can help treat a lot of conditions without using needlessly stronger medication. Aside from purchasing from a trusted pharmacy that you are assured of the quality, purchasing from a licensed online pain management clinic, guarantees you medication that is made and distributed to standards set forth by the UK Government.