Can You Take Paracetamol With Codeine Together?

In this article, we’ll explain whether it’s safe and effective to take paracetamol and codeine together. We’ll look at what paracetamol and codeine are commonly used for, whether paracetamol already contains codeine and why you might consider combining the two. We’ll also explore whether these medications interact with each other and when it might be necessary to take them together. If you’re considering using paracetamol and codeine for pain relief, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for you.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about using paracetamol and codeine together:

• It’s generally safe to combine paracetamol and codeine for pain relief.

• Paracetamol is a non-opioid pain medication used for mild to moderate pain and fever. Codeine is an opioid that helps with more severe pain by affecting the brain and nervous system.

• Some medications combine paracetamol and codeine to provide more substantial pain relief.

• While paracetamol and codeine don’t negatively interact with each other, taking them inappropriately or exceeding the recommended dose can lead to harmful side effects.

• It’s important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking paracetamol and codeine, especially if you're unsure about the dosage.

What is codeine taken for?

Codeine is an opioid medication commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain that isn’t eased by over-the-counter painkillers. It can also be prescribed to manage coughing or diarrhoea in some cases; however, this is not its primary use in the majority of cases. Codeine works by altering how the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals, providing relief and reducing discomfort.

What is paracetamol?

Paracetamol is a popular over-the-counter medication for relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever that is found in many homes around the UK. It is usually taken for conditions like headaches, toothaches, muscle aches and the discomfort caused by cold or flu. Unlike codeine, paracetamol is not an opioid and works by blocking certain chemical messengers in the brain that signal pain or cause fever.

Does paracetamol contain codeine?

No, standard paracetamol does not contain codeine. There are, however, combination medications available that include both paracetamol and codeine in a single tablet or capsule. These products are designed to provide enhanced pain relief by combining the effects of both medications, but usually, you require a prescription to purchase them. 

If you are unsure about the medication you are buying, it is important to consult with your doctor or a pharmacist for advice before you take it.

Can you take paracetamol and codeine together?

Yes, it is generally considered to be safe to take paracetamol and codeine together. Many combination medications, such as co-codamol, are specifically designed to include both codeine and paracetamol. These combination medications provide extra pain relief by using paracetamol’s ability to reduce pain and fever alongside codeine’s opioid effects for more severe discomfort.

However, it’s important to follow the recommended dosages and avoid taking additional paracetamol or codeine alongside combination products to prevent accidental overdose. If you’re unsure about what’s safe for you, speak to your pharmacist or doctor for help.

Do paracetamol and codeine interact with each other?

Paracetamol and codeine do not negatively interact with each other when you take them as they should be used. The two medications are often combined because they work well together to relieve pain.

However, taking these medications together inappropriately by taking more than the recommended dosage can increase the risk of side effects or internal damage, particularly to the liver. Always follow the guidance on the packaging or from your healthcare provider to make sure you’re using the medications correctly.

Why would you need to take paracetamol and codeine together?

Paracetamol and codeine are often taken together to manage moderate to severe pain that cannot be relieved by paracetamol on its own. The combination is beneficial for conditions such as dental pain, pain after surgery or injuries where stronger pain relief is needed.

Paracetamol helps reduce pain and fever, while codeine acts on the brain and nervous system. Together, they provide effective relief, allowing for better pain management in situations where just one medication may not work.

Final Thoughts

Paracetamol and codeine are widely used medications that can be taken together safely when used as directed. Paracetamol is effective for mild to moderate pain and fever, while codeine provides extra relief for more severe pain. These two medications are often combined to manage pain that one medication cannot relieve on its own.

It’s important to always follow dosage guidelines and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure about how to use your medication. Taking more than the recommended amount can lead to serious side effects and liver damage. If you’re considering paracetamol and codeine for pain relief, consult a doctor to make sure it’s the best and safest option for you.

Further Reading

Taking codeine with other medicines and herbal supplements - NHS

Drug Interaction Report - Paracetamol & Codeine - drugs.com