What is the common mistake with co-codamol and paracetamol?

A common mistake is patients taking additional paracetamol on top of co-codamol, not realizing that co-codamol already contains paracetamol.

What are the risks of mixing paracetamol and co-codamol?

Mixing paracetamol and co-codamol incorrectly can lead to overdosing, which carries risks of severe liver and kidney damage.

Why should I inform my doctor about my medications?

You should inform your doctor about all medications to ensure compatibility, as some medicines can affect how co-codamol works, or vice versa, and to prevent potential adverse reactions.

Home / Health / Paracetamol Danger: Hidden Risk Revealed

Paracetamol Danger: Hidden Risk Revealed

4 Feb

•

Summary

Taking co-codamol and paracetamol together is a common mistake.
Overdosing can cause severe liver and kidney damage.
Inform your doctor about all medications for compatibility.

Paracetamol Danger: Hidden Risk Revealed

A UK National Health Service (NHS) GP has issued a critical warning regarding the concurrent use of paracetamol and co-codamol, highlighting a common but potentially dangerous mistake made by patients. The doctor explained that individuals experiencing insufficient pain relief from co-codamol may incorrectly take additional paracetamol, not realizing that co-codamol itself contains paracetamol.

This practice can inadvertently lead to overdosing, which carries risks of severe liver and kidney damage. The NHS also advises caution with other medications containing paracetamol, including certain painkillers, migraine treatments, and cough/cold remedies. Furthermore, some medicines can affect how co-codamol works, or vice versa.

Patients are strongly encouraged to disclose all medications they are taking to their doctor. This ensures proper assessment of compatibility and prevents potentially severe adverse reactions or reduced efficacy of prescribed treatments.