Co-dydramol

About co-dydramol

Co-dydramol contains a combination of two painkilling ingredients - paracetamol and dihydrocodeine. It is available in four strengths. The strength of paracetamol is 500 mg in each tablet but the strength of dihydrocodeine varies.

Co-dydramol is used to relieve moderately painful conditions such as muscle and joint aches and pains, toothache and period pain.

Before taking co-dydramol

Before taking co-dydramol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have liver, kidney or breathing problems.
• If you have ever had problems with drug or alcohol addiction.
• If you have low blood pressure.
• If you have prostate problems, or an underactive thyroid gland.
• If you have bowel problems, or have severe bowel pain.
• If you have been constipated for more than a week.
• If you have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you have a gallbladder problem.
• If you have recently had a severe head injury.
• If you have a convulsive disorder such as epilepsy.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take co-dydramol

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take co-dydramol exactly as directed by your doctor. Take the tablets with or after some food.
• Never take more than your prescribed dose and never take more than 2 tablets at any one time or more than 8 tablets in any 24-hour period. Taking too much co-dydramol can cause liver damage. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of co-dydramol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
• Do not take other paracetamol preparations at the same time as co-dydramol. Many over-the-counter products, including cold and flu preparations, contain paracetamol. Before taking or buying any other medicines, check with your pharmacist which are safe for you to take alongside co-dydramol.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not take co-dydramol for longer periods than you have been directed by your prescriber.
• Taking dihydrocodeine regularly for a long time can lead to addiction, which might cause you to feel restless and irritable when you stop the tablets. If you are concerned about this, discuss the problem with your doctor or pharmacist.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Can co-dydramol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

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

How to store co-dydramol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines