Can I take Co-codamol and Ibuprofen together?

Co-codamol and ibuprofen can be taken together because they work in different ways to relieve pain:

• Co-codamol contains paracetamol and codeine, which mainly work on the brain and nervous system to reduce pain perception.

• Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works at the site of pain by reducing inflammation.

Because they act through different mechanisms, taking them together can provide stronger pain relief without increasing the risk of overdose for either drug-as long as you stick to the recommended doses.

What you should do

When taking co-codamol and ibuprofen, you should:

• Take them at the same time or stagger them (for example, taking ibuprofen two hours after your co-codamol).

• Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging.

• Do not take any other products containing paracetamol while taking co-codamol, as this could lead to a dangerous overdose.

Important precautions

Paracetamol overdose risk

Do not take any other medicines containing paracetamol while taking co-codamol. Taking too much paracetamol can cause serious, permanent liver damage. Check the labels of all cold and flu remedies.

Asthma and stomach ulcers

Do not take ibuprofen if you have ever had a stomach ulcer, perforation, or bleeding. If you have asthma, ibuprofen can cause a life-threatening worsening of your breathing; do not take it if you have previously reacted to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Breathing difficulties

Do not take co-codamol if you have severe asthma or breathing problems, as the codeine can dangerously slow your breathing.

Opioid addiction and withdrawal

Co-codamol contains codeine, which is addictive. Do not use it for more than 3 days in a row. If you take it for longer, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like restlessness and irritability when you stop.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

You must avoid drinking alcohol while taking co-codamol. Combining alcohol with codeine increases the risk of serious side effects, such as extreme sleepiness, breathing difficulties, and loss of consciousness. Both alcohol and paracetamol can also strain the liver.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks)

Limit your intake of caffeine-containing drinks. Some co-codamol preparations already contain caffeine. Excessive caffeine can lead to nervousness, tremors, and a rapid heartbeat.

Food (General)

While not an interaction that changes how the drug works, you should always take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach upset.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.