If you take recreational drugs (such as cannabis, cocaine or heroin) while you’re taking prescribed co-codamol over the counter it increases your risk of getting the serious side effects from the codeine in the medicine. These can include breathing difficulties, heart problems and fits. This is particularly dangerous for children.
If your child takes this medicine and shows any of these signs, get medical help immediately. It may also be unsafe to drive if this medicine makes you drowsy or dizzy. This is especially important if you’re driving or using tools or machinery.
Co-codamol is a mixture of 2 different painkillers – paracetamol and codeine – which is used to treat headaches, muscular pain, migraines and toothache. It can also be taken when everyday painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen don’t work. It’s available in 3 strengths – the lowest strength is sold over the counter in small packets and the higher strengths are only available on prescription.
Using Co-Codamol for Osteoarthritis Pain Management
Like all medicines, it can cause side effects although not everyone gets them. Some of the most common side effects from co-codamol are constipation and feeling sick (nausea) or drowsy.
It’s also important to tell your doctor if you’re taking any other medicines. Some medicines can affect how co-codamol works or stop it working as well as they should, including some complementary medicines and herbal remedies.
