Can you take paracetamol with dihydrocodeine?
Key Takeaways:
Paracetamol and Dihydrocodeine: You can take paracetamol alongside dihydrocodeine safely, and this combination can be effective for treating pain. However, avoid combining dihydrocodeine with other codeine-containing painkillers.
Dihydrocodeine vs. Codeine: Dihydrocodeine is stronger than codeine and is more effective for managing moderate to severe pain, but it also carries a higher risk of dependence and addiction.
Side Effects: Common side effects of taking paracetamol and dihydrocodeine together include nausea, vomiting, and tiredness. If you experience more severe side effects like dizziness or difficulty urinating, seek medical advice immediately.
What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter painkillers in the United Kingdom. It is primarily used to treat mild to moderate pain such as headaches, joint pain, and toothaches. Paracetamol can also be used to reduce fever, making it a common choice for treating cold and flu symptoms. Typically, paracetamol is taken in 500mg doses, and it can take up to one hour to feel the effects. While it is effective for mild pain, paracetamol is not suitable for managing moderate to severe pain on its own.
Paracetamol is often compared to ibuprofen, another over-the-counter painkiller. However, unlike ibuprofen, paracetamol does not reduce inflammation and is considered gentler on the stomach. It is available in tablets, capsules, and also in combination with other medications like cough syrups.
What is Dihydrocodeine?
Dihydrocodeine is an opioid painkiller that is typically used to manage moderate to severe pain. Unlike paracetamol, which works by reducing pain, dihydrocodeine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking pain signals. Dihydrocodeine is more potent than over-the-counter painkillers and is often prescribed after surgery, severe injury, or when non-prescription painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen are ineffective.
As a stronger painkiller, dihydrocodeine carries a higher risk of dependence and addiction, which is why it is usually prescribed for short-term use. The medication works by boosting mood and providing relief from pain, but it can take 1.5 to 2 hours for the effects to fully set in.
Can You Take Paracetamol with Dihydrocodeine?
Yes, you can take paracetamol with dihydrocodeine, and this combination is commonly prescribed as co-dydramol. Co-dydramol is often used when milder painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen are not sufficient for managing pain. When combined, paracetamol works to reduce inflammation, while dihydrocodeine targets the pain receptors in the brain, offering enhanced pain relief.
However, you should not take dihydrocodeine with any other painkillers containing codeine. Combining multiple opioid-based medications can increase the risk of side effects such as respiratory depression, overdose, or addiction. Be sure to follow the prescribed dosages carefully and consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about combining these medications.
What is Co-Dydramol?
Co-dydramol is a combination medication containing dihydrocodeine and paracetamol. It is typically used for moderate pain that is not adequately managed by over-the-counter painkillers alone. This combination provides enhanced pain relief, as dihydrocodeine works as an opioid analgesic, while paracetamol provides additional pain-relieving effects through its anti-inflammatory properties.
Co-dydramol is typically used for short-term pain relief, but should be prescribed with caution. Certain individuals with specific health conditions should consult their doctor before taking this medication. For example, those with asthma, liver or kidney problems, severe head injuries, or alcohol dependence may face increased risks when using opioid painkillers.
Is Dihydrocodeine the Same as Codeine?
No, dihydrocodeine and codeine are different medications, although they are both opioid painkillers. The key differences include:
Potency: Dihydrocodeine is stronger than codeine, making it more effective for treating moderate to severe pain.
Dependence: Due to its higher potency, dihydrocodeine has a higher risk of dependence and addiction compared to codeine.
Euphoric Effects: Dihydrocodeine can also produce a more pronounced euphoric effect due to its stronger action on the brain’s pain receptors.
Both medications should be used only as prescribed, as long-term use can lead to addiction or misuse.
What Are the Side Effects of Taking Paracetamol and Dihydrocodeine Together?
When taking paracetamol and dihydrocodeine together, you may experience side effects. Common side effects of this combination include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Tiredness
Headaches
These side effects are generally mild and tend to subside once your body adjusts to the medication. However, some more serious side effects, though less common, may occur. If you experience any of the following, seek medical advice immediately:
Skin rashes
Dizziness
Disrupted vision
Difficulty urinating
Always follow the prescribed dosage and consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.
Final Thoughts
In summary, paracetamol and dihydrocodeine can be safely taken together in the form of co-dydramol, providing enhanced pain relief. However, it is essential to avoid combining dihydrocodeine with other codeine-containing painkillers, as this can increase the risk of side effects. As both medications are opioid-based, they carry a risk of dependence, addiction, and other serious side effects if not used correctly. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and stick to the prescribed dosage.
For those seeking co-dydramol or dihydrocodeine with paracetamol, these medications can be accessed online from PharmXtra, following a successful consultation with an independent prescriber.
