About codeine phosphate + acetaminophen
Opioid analgesic plus non-opioid pain reliever
Used for
- Short-term relief of moderate pain when simpler pain relievers are insufficient.
Usual adult dose
Usually 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed; follow the product leaflet and do not exceed its daily limit.
Usual dose in children
Not recommended for children under 12. For ages 12–18, use only when prescribed; dosing depends on age and weight.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, or constipation
- Paracetamol overdose can cause severe liver damage
- Codeine can cause slow or difficult breathing
Important warnings
- Can cause dependence; use for the shortest possible time.
- Avoid alcohol and driving if sleepy or dizzy.
- Do not combine with other paracetamol-containing medicines.
- Codeine is unsafe for some people who rapidly convert it to morphine.
Pregnancy
Generally avoid, especially near delivery; prolonged use can harm the unborn baby or cause withdrawal in newborns.
Breastfeeding
Not recommended: codeine can pass into milk and cause serious breathing problems in the infant.
Interactions
- Alcohol, sedatives, and sleeping medicines increase drowsiness and breathing risk.
- Other paracetamol products increase liver-damage risk.
- Some antidepressants and other medicines affect codeine’s pain relief or side effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.