Co-codamol is a mixture of 2 different painkillers – paracetamol and codeine.
It's used to treat aches and pains including headaches, muscle pain, migraines and toothache.
It may help to take co-codamol if everyday painkillers, such as ibuprofen, aspirin or paracetamol on its own, have not worked.
This medicine comes as tablets and capsules, including soluble tablets that you dissolve in water.
Co-codamol tablets and capsules come in 3 strengths. You can buy the lowest strength from pharmacies but the higher strengths are only available on prescription.
For children and young people under 18 years old, read our information on co-codamol for children.
Key facts
- Co-codamol takes up to 1 hour to work. It keeps on working for about 5 hours.
- The most common side effects of co-codamol are constipation, feeling sick (nausea) or feeling sleepy.
- Taking too much co-codamol can be harmful. Do not increase the dose, even if your pain is very bad.
- It's possible to become addicted to the codeine in co-codamol, but your doctor will explain how to reduce the risks of becoming addicted.
- If you need to take co-codamol for more than a few weeks, your treatment plan may include details of how and when to stop taking this medicine.