Co-codamol for children
About
Co-codamol is a mixture of 2 different painkillers – paracetamol and codeine. It's used to treat aches and pains including headaches, migraine, muscle pain and toothache. Children and young people aged 12 to 17 years old can take co-codamol but only if everyday painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol on its own, have not worked. Do not give co-codamol to children under 12 years old. It can cause severe breathing problems. This medicine comes as tablets and capsules. Co-codamol tablets and capsules come in 3 strengths. You can buy the lowest strength from pharmacies but higher strengths are only available on prescription. For adults aged 18 years old and over, read our information on co-codamol for adults. Co-codamol takes up to 1 hour to work. It keeps on working for about 5 hours. Common side effects include constipation, feeling or being sick and feeling sleepy. Giving your child too much co-codamol can be harmful. Do not increase the dose, even if their pain is very bad. It's possible to become addicted to the codeine in co-codamol, but your child's doctor will explain how to reduce the risks of this happening. Co-codamol is also known by many different brand names. Talk to your pharmacist if you have any questions about different brands. Page last reviewed: 16 October 2023 Next review due: 16 October 2026
Key facts
Co-codamol takes up to 1 hour to work. It keeps on working for about 5 hours.
Common side effects include constipation, feeling or being sick and feeling sleepy.
Giving your child too much co-codamol can be harmful. Do not increase the dose, even if their pain is very bad.
It's possible to become addicted to the codeine in co-codamol, but your child's doctor will explain how to reduce the risks of this happening.
Co-codamol is also known by many different brand names. Talk to your pharmacist if you have any questions about different brands.