By: Annabelle Clarke
May 11, 2021
Following the correct co-codamol dosage is crucial in treating pain, as it ensures that the correct amount of the substance is prevalent in the body. These tablets are available in 30mg of codeine and 500mg of paracetamol, which is one of the commonly used strengths. However, patients can also opt for lower doses of 8mg or 15mg of codeine. A study has shown that the addition of both these agents has provided the perfect treatment for pain. Its different methods of working boost not only its efficacy but its tolerability as well. This allows a broader range of age groups to make use of it.
Co-codamol tablets can be taken in the following plan:
- Patients over the age of eighteen and above should take one or two tablets up to four times a day. With this allowance, the maximum dose for adult patients would be eight pills in one day.
- If the tablet is being used in adolescent, patients below eighteen years can follow the same co-codamol dosage schedule. However, proper monitoring should be practised in this age group.
- The elderly patients should take the minimum dose of one tablet up to four times a day. Although this has not been studied, a dose reduction is definitely necessary for these patients.
Patients should always place a therapeutic window before their doses to avoid excessive drowsiness and the feared toxicity. Taking the medication consecutively without this window period can be dangerous, as prolonged use of codeine and paracetamol can cause severe damage to the liver, as well as dependence. If the current dosage plan does not provide enough pain relief, patients should not self-medicate or take an increased dose from what was prescribed by the doctor or pharmacist. This may prolong the healing process rather than speed it up.
Can You Take Co-Codamol on an Empty Stomach?
Co-codamol is available as tablets and effervescent tablets. Patients who cannot swallow tablets can easily dissolve the effervescent in water to quickly receive its pain-relieving effects. This solution should be mixed well before consumption. However, no matter the form, this medication can safely be used on an empty stomach. As a general rule, the tablet can be taken one or two hours before consuming a meal. This is because the absorption rate may be affected by the meal eaten and the time of eating.
Sometimes, if patients take their co-codamol tablets simultaneously with a meal, it may interfere with how the stomach and intestines (gastrointestinal functions) absorb the active ingredient. Therefore, if food is present in the stomach at the same time, it can delay and decrease the absorption of the medication. This can lead to a delayed onset time of analgesia. Additionally, some foods can interact with the ingredients of this tablet, which can inhibit the way it is supposed to work. However, there may be exceptions to this regulation.
Patients who have a sensitive stomach find the treatment more tolerable after a meal. This method can reduce one of the co-codamol side effects: nausea. It can also reduce the risk of patients who are prone to acid reflux. They can experiment to see which option is best for them, but they should take it, in the same manner, all the time.
Available Co-Codamol Strengths
In the world of remedies, there are many forms and strengths that are perfectly designed for the needs of each individual. Strength refers to the number of active ingredients present in a co-codamol dosage form. In some instances, the form with the lowest strength is said to produce the most potent effects. This treatment can be purchased in three strengths. This would be 8mg, 15mg and 30mg of codeine, with a standard amount of 500mg. The amount of paracetamol remains constant, as it cannot exceed this amount. It is the safest maximum dose of the substance that can be used with codeine.
These multiple strengths of the medication allow clinicians the flexibility that they need to meet the individual requirements of any patient. Although the various strengths may increase the risk of dispensing the wrong strength, its benefits outweigh this risk. It is also very rare to wrongfully prescribe this painkiller in the UK.
Co-Codamol 30/500 mg vs 8/500 mg for Pain?
When deducing the optimum co-codamol dosage plan, it does not remain the same across all patients. This is because treating pain does not have a one-size fits all option. The different intensities and origins require different doses to be treated effectively. The comparison between co-codamol 8/500 and 30/500 are not significantly different, as the effectiveness remains the same. Since it is the lowest dose, it is commonly used for instant acute pain. Having different doses allows patients to choose a dose that is best suited for their intensity of pain, as well as their tolerance.
Co-codamol 30/500 is the highest dose of the medication and is commonly used for severe types of pain due to the amount of codeine. The interaction between the differing amounts of codeine with a standard amount of paracetamol provides various solutions that can rectify many types of pain.
How Many Co-Codamol Can I Take?
Painkillers are usually safe when taken as directed. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications. Only a handful of patients have poor adherence, but this should not deter others from using medications, such as co-codamol. This treatment plan must be followed in accordance with the patient’s individual frequency and general dosage recommendations. When a programme is devised, it is usually started on the lowest strength, as it allows patients to closely evaluate their reaction to the tablet.
The maximum co-codamol dosage for each age group is as follows:
- Adults- Eight tablets a day
- Elderly- There is no specified dose, however, dosage reduction is necessary for patients with impaired hepatic function.
- Children from twelve to fifteen years- Four tablets a day
- Children from sixteen years to eighteen years- Eight tablets a day
Patients from these age groups should not exceed their maximum dosages as it may lead to unforeseen adverse effects. Those who buy co-codamol online should also remember that they should confirm their therapeutic dose with the pharmacist or doctor. We offer supplementary information and customer support to ensure patients have the help they need and remain well informed.
More Helpful Information About this Product
- What is Co-codamol?
- How does Co-codamol Work?
- Co-codamol Side Effects
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