Paramol Tablets 32

What is Paramol Tablets 32?

Paramol is a combination painkiller kept behind the pharmacy counter. Each tablet combines paracetamol with a small amount of dihydrocodeine, which is an opioid. It is licensed for the short-term relief of moderate pain that paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin alone has not relieved.

How does it help?

The two ingredients work in different ways at the same time. Paracetamol reduces the pain signals your brain and spinal cord register. Dihydrocodeine attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord and dampens how strongly the pain is felt. Because it contains an opioid, taking it for longer than intended can lead to physical and psychological dependence, which is why use is limited to three days.

Key benefits

• For moderate pain such as backache, dental pain, period pain and muscular pain
• Two painkillers with different actions in one tablet, so there is no need to combine separate products
• Sold under a pharmacist's supervision, so you can talk through whether it suits you and your other medicines
• Can be used from age 12, at a lower dose for 12 to 15 year olds

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. This medicine contains dihydrocodeine and can cause addiction - take it for no more than three days in a row, and see your doctor if you still need pain relief after that. Taking painkillers for headaches over long periods can make the headaches worse. It must not be taken while breastfeeding, or if you have breathing problems, a recent head injury or raised pressure in the head, acute alcoholism, convulsive disorders, or a history of drug dependence. Do not take any other paracetamol-containing medicine alongside it. It can cause drowsiness and constipation, so do not drive or use tools if it affects you. Our pharmacist checks it is right for you before it is supplied.