Paracetamol, Codeine and Buclizine

About Paracetamol, Codeine and Buclizine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antimigraine drugs.

This is a combination medicine containing paracetamol, codeine and buclizine. It is used to relieve the symptoms of migraine including headache, nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting (being sick).

Paracetamol and codeine belong to the group of medicines known as analgesics or painkillers. They help to ease the pain of the migraine headache.

Buclizine belongs to the group of medicines known as anti-emetics or anti-sickness medicines. It works by increasing the contractions of the stomach and intestines, which aids in quick absorption of the painkilling paracetamol and also by relieving nausea and vomiting.

This pack contains two different coloured tablets - pink and yellow. The pink tablets contain all three ingredients and the yellow tablets contain just paracetamol and codeine.

The different coloured tablets are also available separately.

It is also sometimes known as: Migraleve. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Paracetamol, Codeine and Buclizine

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breast-feeding
• if the patient is under ten years of age
• if you suffer from liver, kidney, respiratory (breathing), prostate or thyroid problems
• if you suffer from epilepsy or hypotension (low blood pressure)
• if you have recently suffered a serious head injury
• if you are so constipated you feel there may be a blockage
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Paracetamol, Codeine and Buclizine

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• If the patient is over 15 years of age: Two pink tablets should be taken at onset of migraine attack. Two yellow tablets can then be taken every four hours when required. No more than two pink tablets and six yellow tablets to be taken in 24 hours.
• If the patient is between 10 and 15 years of age: One pink tablet should be taken at onset of migraine attack. one yellow tablet can then be taken every four hours when required. No more than one pink tablet and three yellow tablets to be taken in 24 hours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this preparation contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside this preparation
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours

Getting the most from your treatment

• This preparation can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Alcohol will increase any feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• This preparation can cause constipation. Constipation can often be eased by including plenty of fibre in your diet and by drinking plenty of water.
• This preparation can cause dry mouth. If you experience this, try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. Alternatively a saliva substitute is available to purchase from your pharmacist. If dry mouth becomes too troublesome speak with your doctor.
• This preparation may cause you to sweat more than you would usually. Take care not to become overheated during hot weather. You may also feel the cold more than you would usually. Ensure you wrap up and wear plenty of clothing during cold weather.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside this preparation.
• Because taking too much paracetamol is harmful do not take any other medicines containing paracetamol at the same time as this medicine. Many common over the counter preparations contain paracetamol, so always read the label carefully. If in doubt ask your pharmacist or doctor.

Can Paracetamol, Codeine and Buclizine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted symptoms, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. If any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), constipation, drowsiness, difficulty urinating (passing water), dry mouth, sweating, headache, flushing (redness of the face), dizziness, a fast or fluttering heartbeat, seeing or hearing things that aren't real, mood changes, sexual problems, skin rashes.

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Paracetamol, Codeine and Buclizine

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 29/10/2003