Co-codamol is a combination of Paracetamol and Codeine.
It is usually prescribed when other painkillers like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen have not provided relief. It can be used for headaches, migraines, muscles pain or toothache. It can also be taken long-term for chronic illnesses, such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) or Costochondritis. Some lower doses (8mg) of Co-codamol are available over the counter but the stronger doses (15 or 30mg) must be prescribed by a medical professional.
Although this medication is a very effective pain relief, it is not without its disadvantages. Indeed, it is possible for people to become addicted to Co-codamol, and as it contains Paracetamol, the risk of an accidental overdose is still present. There are also some possible side effects:
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Rashes
- Drowsiness
Although these side effects are not common, they can be fairly distressing. Moreover, when combined with other medications such as sleeping pills or some anti-depressants, the drowsiness can be made worse. This is where Medsmart® can help! By showing your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare professional your virtual medicine cabinet, they will be able to recommend another medication which will reduce these side-effects of drowsiness considerably. Medsmart® can also help you keep track of your doses with reminder notifications, to make sure you are taking the right amount at the right time. So, using Medsmart® may help you manage your medication and your medical condition better.
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Written by Julie Regamey.
References
- https://beta.nhs.uk/medicines/co-codamol-for-adults/
- https://healthunlocked.com/co-codamol
- https://www.patientslikeme.com/treatments/show/5561-cocodamol-side-effects-and-efficacy?brand=t
- https://patient.info/medicine/co-codamol-for-pain-relief
- http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/aches-and-pains/a26376/can-i-take-co-codamol-with-other-medicines/
Disclaimer
This is curated content taken from what people are saying on the web, popular conversations about medicines. We aim to provide a wide range of information for our users and readers to give a brief overview of this medicine’s main use, side effects and possible issues. We have not detailed one specific or individual health condition. We are in no way intending to replace medical advice or prescription, and we strongly suggest individuals seek advice from their doctors, pharmacists or other healthcare professionals. This article is not a substitute for medical advice. Talking Medicines, the company behind Medsmart®, has taken every effort to ensure the information written in this article is accurate but cannot guarantee that all is medically correct. Medsmart® only provides general information about post prescription medication. Medsmart® does not provide medical advice in relation to any individual case or patient, nor does Medsmart® provide medical or diagnostic services. The information provided through Medsmart® does not replace advice obtained from a qualified healthcare professional. Medsmart® users should always consult a healthcare professional before acting on any of the information you read.