cocodamol tablets (pronounced co-co-da-mol) is a combination of 2 different painkillers – paracetamol and codeine. It’s used to treat aches and pains such as headaches, muscular pain, migraines and toothache. It’s available to buy over-the-counter in low strength at pharmacies and by prescription in higher strength.
When you take co-codamol it helps to control pain but it can make you feel sleepy. Some people have side effects like constipation or feeling sick (nauseous) when they first start taking co-codamol but these usually go away after a while. It’s important not to take too much as this can cause addiction and harm your health. Using it for a long time can also cause long-lasting health problems like liver damage, kidney damage and life-threatening breathing difficulties.
The Impact of Co-Codamol on Immune Function
It’s possible to overdose on this medicine if you take too many tablets or capsules or drink too much alcohol. If you think you or someone else has taken too much, get medical help immediately. Signs of overdose include difficulty breathing, blue-tinged lips or nails, constricted pupils, loss of consciousness and extreme drowsiness.
You shouldn’t take this medicine with other medicines that contain paracetamol unless your doctor advises it. This includes some migraine remedies, such as Tramacet and Co-dydramol, and some cough and cold medicines e.g. Lemsip and Night Nurse. It may also stop some other medicines working as well as they should. Check the leaflet inside your packet or ask your doctor for advice.