Description
What Is Co-Codamol?
Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets is a prescription-only pain relief medication combining paracetamol and codeine phosphate for powerful, dual-action pain control. It is commonly prescribed for moderate to severe pain that does not respond to paracetamol or ibuprofen alone.
Paracetamol works to reduce fever and block pain signals, while codeine, an opioid, enhances these effects by targeting pain receptors in the brain and spinal cord. Together, they offer a stronger and more effective solution for both acute and chronic pain conditions.
How Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets Works
-
- Paracetamol blocks prostaglandins in the brain, reducing pain and temperature.
- Codeine binds to opioid receptors to block pain transmission and provide mild sedation, offering emotional and physical relief from pain.
This two-pronged approach provides rapid and reliable pain relief while also addressing the emotional discomfort often associated with long-term pain.
What Is Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets Used For?
Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets is commonly prescribed to treat:
-
- Post-surgical pain
- Back pain and sciatica
- Muscle aches and sports injuries
- Dental pain or extractions
- Joint pain, including arthritis and osteoarthritis
- Migraine and tension headaches (under medical advice)
- Chronic pain not managed by standard over-the-counter options
It is only suitable when other non-opioid painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, are insufficient.
Available Strengths of Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets
Co-Codamol comes in three strengths, defined by the codeine content per tablet:
-
- 8/500 – 8mg codeine + 500mg paracetamol (over-the-counter in small packs)
- 15/500 – 15mg codeine + 500mg paracetamol (prescription-only)
- 30/500 – 30mg codeine + 500mg paracetamol (strongest, prescription-only)
Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets typically contains either the 15/500 or 30/500 strength. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
How to Take Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets
-
- Take 1 to 2 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed
- Do not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours
- Swallow tablets whole with water
- Leave at least 4 hours between doses
- Do not use for more than 3 days unless directed by your doctor
Do not combine with other medications containing paracetamol to avoid accidental overdose, which can cause serious liver damage.
Who Can Take Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets?
Suitable for:
-
- Adults and children 12 years and older with moderate to severe pain
- Patients not responding to standard over-the-counter pain relief
Not suitable for:
-
- Children under 12
- Patients with liver or kidney conditions
- Individuals with respiratory issues or sleep apnoea
- People with a history of substance misuse
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (unless advised by a doctor)
- Anyone taking other paracetamol-containing medicines
Possible Side Effects of Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets
Common side effects:
-
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
Less common but serious effects:
-
- Breathing difficulties
- Liver problems (especially with overdose)
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, itching)
- Mood changes, confusion, or disorientation
Seek urgent medical help if you experience chest pain, severe drowsiness, yellowing of the skin, or breathing problems.
Dependence and Withdrawal
Codeine is an opioid, and long-term use can lead to dependency, tolerance, or withdrawal symptoms, especially if taken for more than a few days.
Withdrawal symptoms include:
-
- Sweating or chills
- Muscle aches
- Irritability or mood swings
- Insomnia or fatigue
- Diarrhoea or abdominal cramps
To reduce risk, use Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets for the shortest time necessary, and never increase your dose without guidance.
Storage Instructions
-
- Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature
- Keep tablets in original packaging
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Do not use after the expiry date
- Return any unused tablets to your pharmacy for safe disposal
Where to Buy Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets in the UK
You can securely purchase Co-codamol 30/500mg Tablets from BuyPillsUK.com, a UK online pharmacy offering genuine medication.
We provide:
-
- Safe, encrypted checkout
- Discreet UK-wide delivery
- Access to qualified pharmacists
- Support with online prescription services, if needed
A valid UK prescription is required. If you don’t currently have one, we can help you connect with a registered UK doctor for an online consultation (eligibility required).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Co-codamol used for?
It’s prescribed for moderate to severe pain when other medications are not effective. Commonly used after surgery, injuries, or for chronic pain.
Is Co-Codamol addictive?
Yes. Codeine is an opioid and can be habit-forming. Use only as directed by your doctor, and avoid long-term use without reassessment.
Can I take Co-Codamol with ibuprofen?
Yes, if needed, you can take it with ibuprofen, but not with other paracetamol products.
Can I drive while taking Co-Codamol?
Avoid driving until you know how it affects you. Drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects.
How quickly does it work?
Co-Codamol usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes, offering relief for around 4 to 6 hours.
What should I do if I take too much Co-Codamol?
Seek emergency medical help immediately—especially due to the risk of paracetamol-related liver damage.
Our Range of Products
| Zopiclone BP 7.5mg | Diazepam Generic IP 2mg | Pregablin 300mg | DHC 30mg | Tramadol 50mg |
| Codeine Phosphate 60mg | Codeine Phosphate 30mg | Co-codamol 30mg/500mg | Zopisign 10mg | Alprazolam 1mg |









Reviews
There are no reviews yet.